Qatar's PM Backs Lebanon After New Government Forms
Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, recently announced that his country will continue to support Lebanon's institutions and work on joint projects after the formation of Lebanon’s new government. This commitment comes as Lebanon seeks to rebuild and recover from the aftermath of the 2023 Israel-Hezbollah war, which left significant damage to the country.
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Qatar’s Support for Lebanon
In a recent press conference held in Beirut, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani expressed Qatar’s ongoing support for Lebanon, particularly highlighting assistance to the Lebanese army. Qatar has been supplying fuel and salary grants to the Lebanese army, ensuring the country’s defense capabilities remain intact. With Lebanon facing a massive reconstruction bill following the war, foreign aid has become crucial to meeting the country’s needs.
“The indicators since the beginning of the year have been positive,” Al Thani stated, referring to Lebanon's progress, including the election of President Joseph Aoun and recent developments in Syria. The Prime Minister also emphasized Qatar’s desire to establish a strategic partnership with Lebanon, one that benefits both nations based on mutual interests.
Aiming for Strategic Partnerships
The formation of a new government in Lebanon has been a focal point for international stakeholders. Qatar looks forward to this process, with plans to collaborate on various projects once the government is in place. Al Thani’s meetings in Beirut with key Lebanese leaders, including President Aoun, caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, and Prime Minister-elect Nawaf Salam, reflect Qatar’s dedication to fostering strong relations.
Pressure from the US on Lebanon’s New Government
Despite international support, the formation of Lebanon’s new cabinet has faced external pressure. The United States has urged Lebanese officials not to allow Hezbollah or its ally Amal Movement, led by Nabih Berri, to nominate Lebanon’s next finance minister. The political climate is tense, with Hezbollah and Israel having exchanged fire during the escalation of violence in October 2023, which saw the Gaza war spill over into southern Lebanon.
The situation in Lebanon remains fragile, but with Qatar’s unwavering support, there is hope that the country will be able to rebuild and stabilize in the coming months.
By supporting Lebanon during this critical period, Qatar aims to solidify its role as a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy and provide much-needed assistance to Lebanon’s recovery efforts.