The news of appointing former ambassador Simon Karam to head the Lebanese delegation to the “Mechanism” meetings—and the Presidency’s confirmation of his participation in today’s session in Naqoura—can only be understood within the context of the bold steps President Joseph Aoun is taking to move toward direct negotiations to resolve disputes and steer Lebanon away from the brink of war.
This historic step can only come through the Abraham Accords. And this is fully in line with President Aoun’s character. In his address to the Pope, he stated, “We affirm today that the survival of this Lebanon, gathered entirely around you, is a condition for peace, hope, and reconciliation among all the children of Abraham.”
He also said, “Tell the world about us—that we remain the only meeting ground in our entire region, and I dare say in the whole world, where such a gathering can unite around the successor of Peter, jointly representing all the children of Abraham, with all their beliefs, holy sites, and shared values.”
What President Joseph Aoun announced today is far from a minor detail—especially following the historic visit of Pope Leo XIV, a visit that consecrated the path of peace through its speeches, symbols, and messages. It is this very path that President Aoun embraces and champions as the only way to save Lebanon, revive it, and restore its role as a beacon for the Middle East.
There is no doubt that President Aoun’s step will face fierce attacks—from the enemies of life, the enemies of peace, and the worshippers of war. But the decision has been made. And President Aoun is surrounded by Arab and international support, backed by the Vatican, while the will of the Lebanese people today is stronger than any voices calling for death and destruction.
The road ahead is certainly long and filled with complexities, but one fact stands: this road has finally been opened.
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