President Joseph Aoun’s appointment of former ambassador Simon Karam to Lebanon’s delegation for the ceasefire monitoring committee, established under the November 27, 2024, agreement, has sparked a wave of political reactions. The reactions, largely supportive, underscore the high political stakes tied to the appointment.
Several national figures see the move as an institutional turning point and a potential signal of a new political phase.
Farès Souhaid, former MP, described the decision as more than procedural, noting that Lebanon’s acceptance to negotiate with Israel through a Maronite figure of Karam’s stature “is not insignificant.” He argued the appointment reflects an evolution in state logic and the recognition that “there is no alternative to the state,” signaling a shared desire to “find solutions” and enter “a new era.”
Ihab Matar, MP for Tripoli, called the appointment “wise and surprising,” highlighting Karam’s diplomatic background and the sensitive security context. He emphasized that internal deadlocks over arms, combined with ongoing Israeli threats and strikes, are closely tied to regional tensions, underlining the need for a “civilian communication channel” as Beirut prepares to receive a UN Security Council delegation.
Waddah Sadek, MP, framed the decision as “a step toward reclaiming state sovereignty,” offering Lebanon the chance to regain initiative and strengthen its role in negotiations. He cautioned, however, that the move must be accompanied by concrete measures including arms control, restoration of state authority nationwide, and prevention of further military escalation.
Fouad Makhzoumi, MP, praised the appointment as “a positive measure in the right direction,” thanking President Aoun for strengthening national sovereignty and placing Lebanon on a path toward broader conflict resolution. He stressed the importance of restoring an effective state capable of controlling decisions of war and peace as essential for security, stability, and prosperity.
Michel Mouawad, MP, described the nomination as “a bold step in the right direction,” calling it a “crucial stage toward ending Lebanon’s imposed state of war and restoring full state sovereignty,” noting that the decision was jointly made by the president, prime minister, and parliamentary speaker.
On the international front, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michael Issa also welcomed the development. In an official statement Thursday, he congratulated Lebanon and Israel for their “courageous” decision to open a channel of dialogue, stressing that compromise, understanding, and principled leadership remain essential for sustainable progress.
The reactions, united in support of Simon Karam’s appointment but varied in expectations, underscore that the decision goes beyond technical considerations. It signals a potential new political space, with the issues of arms, sovereignty, and the role of the state at the center of national debate.
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