The President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, and the Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, in Baabda, on March 27, 2025. (Credit: Photo taken from the presidency's X account)
What is the future of relations between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam? This question has been on everyone's mind since Thursday’s Cabinet meeting at Baabda, where Karim Souhaid was appointed as the new governor of the Banque du Liban (BDL) at the president’s urging, despite the prime minister’s objections. While the president of the republic traditionally has a say in appointments to Maronite positions, this marks the first significant divergence within the governing duo. In this context, the relationship between the two key figures of the executive branch, both of whom enjoy broad support from the international community, may appear to be at risk. However, sources in Baabda Presidential Palace and the Grand Serail downplay the impact of Thursday’s dispute, framing it as a difference of opinion rather than...
What is the future of relations between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam? This question has been on everyone's mind since Thursday’s Cabinet meeting at Baabda, where Karim Souhaid was appointed as the new governor of the Banque du Liban (BDL) at the president’s urging, despite the prime minister’s objections. While the president of the republic traditionally has a say in appointments to Maronite positions, this marks the first significant divergence within the governing duo. In this context, the relationship between the two key figures of the executive branch, both of whom enjoy broad support from the international community, may appear to be at risk. However, sources in Baabda Presidential Palace and the Grand Serail downplay the impact of Thursday’s dispute, framing it as a difference of opinion...
