In two days, Lebanon will enter the last ten critical days of the constitutional deadline, during which the parliament will transform into an electoral body. After this period begins the "era of vacuity," the duration of which cannot be determined at this time. Meanwhile, the Lebanese scene is witnessing diplomatic activity, both at the level of ambassadors from countries concerned with the Lebanese file and various delegations and figures visiting Lebanon.
According to a diplomatic source, this activity is more exploratory than pressuring to finalize the presidential file, distinguishing between the election of a president and the delimitation of the southern maritime borders between Lebanon and Israel. The source stated, through News Agency "Akhbar al-Yawm", that the delimitation that occurred overnight was the result of significant pressure stemming from the repercussions of the war in Ukraine and its impact on Europe and the United States. Israel exploited this pressure, viewing it as a golden opportunity to establish itself as a global oil exporter and link Europe with oil-producing Arab countries in partnership.
The source added that these interests coincided with President Michel Aoun's desire to achieve an accomplishment before the end of his term, leading everyone to share a common goal of concluding the delimitation file. Regarding the presidential level, the source noted a French and American wish for the election of a president and a Saudi desire for the election of a president that does not pose a challenge to any party. This sentiment is insufficient in the deeply troubled Lebanese arena, particularly since there is currently no serious internal discussion about a genuinely consensus candidate; instead, there is a manipulation of the concept of consensus.
The source pointed out that the "intoxication of achievements" still exists among some, prompting each faction to believe it can bring its preferred candidate to the presidency. However, looking at the recent positions, it seems that everyone has moved away from the logic of "candidate of challenge" and has come to the realization that Lebanon cannot be governed through challenges; what remains is to reach a consensus on who the consensus candidate is. The source concluded that this indicates that the vacuity will take its course.
