Reactions from Lebanese politicians poured in on Wednesday, celebrating the election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States. Trump, a Republican, will assume office for a second term, having previously served from 2017 to 2021 and succeeding Democrat Joe Biden.
In his first comment on Trump’s victory, caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati humorously remarked, “Bless your heart; did you offer meghleh?” – a Lebanese dessert traditionally served when a baby is born, alluding to Trump’s Lebanese-American family connection through his son-in-law. Additionally, before today’s cabinet session, Mikati congratulated Trump and the American people “on their democratic practice."
Former Prime Minister Saad Hariri considered the victory “well-deserved,” posting on his X account, “I hope it will open new and better doors for America, the world and my country.”
Caretaker Economy Minister Amin Salam voiced his enthusiasm on Instagram, sharing two photos with Trump. “I told President Trump 8 years ago in 2016... congratulations to America on you and your family. I'll say it again in 2024: congratulations to the United States, to you, your family and Lebanon. Wishing him all the best.”
Kataeb party leader MP Samy Gemayel also congratulated Trump, calling his return to the White House “remarkable.” He added, “We hope the US will renew its commitment to Lebanon and support its sovereignty, as you highlighted in your message to the Lebanese-American community.”
Tripoli’s independent MP, Ihab Matar, described the victory as “historic.” In a post on X, he noted, “With Republicans holding both chambers of Congress, President Trump will have substantial authority to advance his political and economic agenda. May this new era bring positive changes for our region.”
Other notable figures shared their support as well. Former MP Amal Abou Zeid, affiliated with the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), praised “America’s achievement in the most democratic election in its history.”
Meanwhile, Bahaa Hariri wrote on his X account that Trump’s win was “overwhelming” and marked “the start of an era of peace and prosperity in the Middle East.”
Comments