The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, called on Lebanese politicians on Tuesday 1 November to take the necessary steps to break the political deadlock.
President Aoun’s term expired on 31 October and, despite four rounds of parliamentary voting, no successor has been elected and the presidency of Lebanon is vacant (see EUROPE 13045/32). Moreover, since the general elections in May, no government has been formed.
“Such political vacuum is occurring while Lebanon is facing a deteriorating socioeconomic situation. Institutional volatility compounded with economic instability would pose serious risks for Lebanon and its people”, the High Representative warned in a statement.
Mr Borrell called on Lebanese leaders to hold presidential elections and form a government as a matter of urgency. He also reiterated that a disbursement agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) should be concluded to help the country and that the long overdue essential reforms should be undertaken “without any further delay”. Lebanese leaders must face up to their responsibilities and take action, the High Representative urged.
Borrell mentioned that in July 2022, the EU renewed a sanctions framework that allows for the imposition of restrictive measures on individuals or entities that prevent an end to the Lebanese crisis. However, no names have yet been included in this framework. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)