The new parliament faces several challenges, the first of which is electing its president. So far, President Nabih Berri is the only candidate for this position, as the majority of Shiite MPs in parliament largely support him. Meanwhile, campaigns by supporters are promoting the notion of the end of President Michel Aoun's term in exchange for "Berri's return"!
There are many complexities surrounding this process, particularly with major blocs refusing to re-elect Berri, except for the bloc of his ally, Socialist leader Walid Jumblatt. However, "the circle of exception may widen," as it seems that Hezbollah - the common ally - will exert pressure on Jebran Bassil, which could help bypass the fundamental disagreement in favor of granting Berri the votes he requires, which Bassil could justify in exchange for a concession.
Moreover, informed circles indicate that the Lebanese Forces' refusal to elect Berri will also impact upcoming presidential elections or discussions regarding a potential Lebanese dialogue table under regional and international auspices aimed at seeking a new political settlement.
All these positions will manifest in an expanded bazaar within the same alliance, namely between Hezbollah, its ally the Free Patriotic Movement, and the Amal Movement regarding Berri's election. Notably, Bassil rejects the Secretary-General of Hezbollah Hassan Nasrallah's efforts to convince him to support the candidacy of the head of the Marada Movement, Sleiman Frangieh, for the presidency.
Amid this scene, an experienced political figure indicates in a conversation with "Akhbar Al-Yawm" agency that Bassil may propose a larger bargain, much more significant than the vice-presidency of the council and the appointment of his candidate, MP Elias Bou Saab, to that position. This involves extending his "uncle" President Aoun's term next fall. Aoun's previous statements, hinting that he would not leave the presidency until all corrupt individuals are brought to justice, suggest that this logic requires extending Aoun's term for at least two consecutive terms.
He continues: the party seeks to create a foundation that keeps Aoun in the palace long enough to monitor local and regional developments and build upon them. Any setback for him in Beirut would resemble Iran's setback in Baghdad, which would signify a countdown for the resistance axis that is inflamed in Tehran and fragmented in Damascus.
Shadi Helana - Akhbar Al-Yawm
