"I sincerely believe that this new chapter marks the beginning of a transformation process for our country, especially after the fall of Assad's regime in Syria," said Sally Nasr, a second-year master's student in history – international relations at Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ). The 22-year-old student believes that the new president, Joseph Aoun, represents "a figure capable of restoring hope, as a former commander-in-chief of the army, while embodying the necessary firmness to navigate through the current challenges in a fragmented country seeking unity."

However, she stated, "It would be unrealistic to expect change overnight, particularly due to the systemic corruption that prevails in the country."

'Rare depth and sincerity'

Moved by the inaugural speech delivered by the president before Parliament, she said that "unlike traditional political statements often devoid of substance, the president's words resonated with rare depth and sincerity." Nasr stated that, for the first time, she heard "a concrete plan, a roadmap that takes into account the popular aspirations expressed since the October 2019 revolution." She explicitly listed the crucial issues addressed in the speech: "Justice, the monopoly of bearing arms, liberation of the territory occupied by Israel, reconstruction, relations with Syria, the fight against corruption, money laundering, and drug trafficking."

The young student believes his election, which she described as a "breath of fresh air," could become the necessary lever for Lebanon to relaunch, as a sovereign country, a constructive dialogue with the Arab and international community after years of isolation.

She highlighted the renewed interest of foreign leaders and diplomats, including those from Gulf countries, who flock to Beirut every day to show their support and explore avenues of cooperation. This manifests tangibly and represents a valuable opportunity."

Omar Shehab, 22, a master's student in information and communication at USJ, was also optimistic. Presenting himself as secular, he saw Aoun's arrival at the head of the state unifying. "Despite his military background and non-civilian status, his rise to power is not rejected due to the lack of honest politicians."

He said this step is "essential" to achieve "complete secularism of the nation, thanks to a president with a significant majority, able to unify the country while guaranteeing law, justice, and above all, security."

For Lynn Hammoud, 21, also pursuing a master's in information and communication at USJ, she stated that "the majority of Lebanese political parties agreed on the election of General Joseph Aoun, for the first time in years." She described the president's speech as promising.

"If it is truly applied as is, we will surely have a beautiful Lebanon that we deserve," she said.

Adnan al-Haddad, a fifth-year dentistry student at USJ and political science at the Lebanese University, perceives through these changes "a glimmer of hope in this darkness." Deploring the situation in the country before Aoun's election, the 22-year-old noted that the new head of state is not subject to any veto. On the contrary, he enjoys "broad trust, both nationally and internationally."

"He is one of the few figures capable of rallying consensus within a fragmented society while regaining the trust of the international community," Nasr agreed.

'Salam is the ideal person'

Nasr said that, with the appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, "what seemed impossible becomes tangible." According to the young student, Salam is "the ideal person to meet our expectations. His reputation as a man of principles, combining academic rigor and commitment to human rights, makes him a respected figure, not only in Lebanon but also internationally."

Nasr highlighted Salam's role at the International Court of Justice in The Hague and his diplomatic work at the U.N., which gives him undeniable legitimacy and reinforces his credibility as a reformer capable of fighting corruption and government inefficiency. "He has clearly expressed in several books and essays his vision for rebuilding the Lebanese state, reforming the electoral code, and ensuring judicial independence."

Shehab emphasized the importance of the role played by the designated prime minister. "He is not here to punish or show arrogance but solely to unify the country with the help of the various ministries."

For him, the priority today is to ensure physical and economic security. It is no longer just about "recovering stolen money," but focusing on the possibility of rebuilding a sustainable financial future in Lebanon.

Haddad said that "the designated prime minister must form a national unity government, knowing that he cannot afford to disappoint the deputies he depends on for a vote of confidence."

Remaining vigilant about the allocation of portfolios and the ministerial declaration, he added: "We must closely monitor how compatible the declaration will be with the president's inaugural speech. And he points out: I expect the new government to ensure security stability, notably by ensuring the monopoly of arms is reserved for the state and its legitimate institutions."

According to Haddad, this step will contribute to financial stability.

"It is crucial to continue the investigation into the port explosion, as it represents an opportunity for the victims' families to obtain justice. Moreover, it is essential to adopt a financial approach that allows for the restitution of depositors' money. The government must also ensure compliance with international resolutions 1701, 1559, and 1680 to reaffirm the state's authority and sovereignty," he stated, emphasizing the importance for the new government "to develop a long-term plan, a clear vision for the coming years to establish the long-awaited stability."

The state's authority and justice for the August 4 victims

Among the new government's priorities, Nasr noted the state's authority as a guarantee of national sovereignty.

"Reaffirming the state's authority over the entire territory and preventing any infringement of its sovereignty," she said. She also added that ensuring justice for the victims of the double explosion at the Beirut port "constitutes another essential priority." Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of "reconstructing the areas devastated by Israeli attacks, especially in southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Beirut, which remains a crucial step."

"Building a modern state requires comprehensive reforms to relaunch the economy and unlock IMF assistance, as well as other international support," Nasr said. This will allow for restoring trust between the government and citizens.

"The government must adopt a participatory approach, listen to citizens' concerns, and demonstrate its commitment through concrete actions," she stated.

As for Hammoud, she believes that the government's priorities "should focus on resolving the economic crisis and compensating dollar deposits by Lebanese banks" and that "the new government plays a crucial role in creating a new job market to offer new employment opportunities for young graduates."

The young woman also emphasized that securing funds for post-war reconstruction in Lebanon and ensuring security to achieve justice regarding the port explosion is essential. The young student believes that students' role in political life is important, especially through creating new clubs within universities to raise awareness of political engagement and participate in talk shows to express their opinions explicitly and freely.

"Students do not dare to express themselves much on political topics," Haddad said, adding that it is always necessary "to promote a space for diversity and plurality of opinion."

Shehab, who plans to become more involved in university student life, said he wanted to highlight debates and participate in those pushing for modernity within Lebanon, "to bring more freedom while being wary of propaganda."

He committed to always denouncing, analyzing and highlighting the political influences on the masses.

"These influences are always present, and it's normal; they can be positive, but as this country has seen, they can also degenerate into chaos of violence, hatred, and assassinations," he explained.

Haddad reminded young expatriates that "Lebanon remains the ultimate goal" and that they must not "lose sight of their country."

As for Nasr, she had a positive message: "As a woman, I feel the need to prove that politics in Lebanon is not reserved for men. The 2026 legislative elections represent a decisive opportunity to redistribute the cards and elect a Parliament capable of reflecting our aspirations for a better future. We must vote for competent, honest representatives who carry a true national project."