Peoria Standard

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood, co-chair of the U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus and a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, has issued a statement regarding the election of Joseph Aoun as the new President of Lebanon.

"Today is a great day for the people of Lebanon. After 22 months without a constitutionally elected president, the Lebanese Parliament elected the Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, General Joseph Aoun to be President of Lebanon," LaHood stated. He expressed optimism that under President Aoun's leadership, Lebanon will move forward as "a sovereign, independent, and prosperous nation."

LaHood commended the Lebanese Parliament for fulfilling their constitutional duty by electing a president who he believes will provide a better future for Lebanon. He further stated his hope that this election will inspire the Lebanese people to seize this opportunity to overcome challenges posed by Hezbollah and form a strong government committed to fighting corruption and achieving economic prosperity.

"A strong, independent, and sovereign Lebanon, that is free of corruption, will help provide stability in the Middle East," LaHood added. He also mentioned his commitment to working with incoming President Trump and his national security team to support U.S.-Lebanon relations.