Nawaf Salam, seen as an impartial figure, faces the monumental challenge of steering Lebanon through an economic collapse, political divisions, and post-war reconstruction.

Lebanon’s political landscape took a historic turn on Monday as Nawaf Salam, president of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), was nominated as the country’s next prime minister. With the backing of 85 out of 128 lawmakers, Salam emerged as a figure of hope in a nation struggling with economic devastation and post-war reconstruction. However, his designation comes without the critical support of Lebanon’s powerful Shia factions, Hezbollah and Amal, signaling a rocky path ahead for governance.

Salam’s nomination follows last week’s election of Joseph Aoun as president, ending a two-year leadership vacuum. A seasoned diplomat and jurist, Salam served as Lebanon’s ambassador to the United Nations from 2007 to 2017 before joining the ICJ, where he was elected president in 2024. His reputation as a technocrat and relative outsider to Lebanon’s entrenched political elite has earned him the confidence of a broad parliamentary bloc, though he faces fierce opposition from Hezbollah, which deems his rise as a “complete US coup.”

The challenges Salam inherits are monumental. Lebanon’s economy has been in freefall for over five years, with the lira losing nearly 100% of its value, leaving much of the population in poverty. Banking institutions remain paralyzed, and basic public services have all but collapsed. Adding to this burden is the task of rebuilding after a year of conflict that saw devastating Israeli bombardments halted only by a tenuous ceasefire in late November.

Political divisions are likely to complicate the formation of Salam’s cabinet, a process that has historically taken months in Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing system. Under this system, the presidency is reserved for a Maronite Christian, the prime minister for a Sunni, and the parliamentary speaker for a Shia. Salam’s nomination, however, has exposed fractures, particularly as Hezbollah and its allies firmly backed Najib Mikati’s continuation in office.

Observers are watching closely to see whether Salam can build a consensus and implement reforms necessary to unlock international financial aid and stabilize the nation. With a legacy of impartiality and international credibility, Salam represents a potential break from Lebanon’s traditional political gridlock. Yet, the weight of sectarian rivalries and entrenched corruption threatens to derail progress.

Salam’s ability to navigate this minefield will determine whether Lebanon can emerge from its prolonged crises or plunge further into instability. For now, his nomination is a symbolic step toward change, but the real test lies in his capacity to unite a fractured nation and deliver results in the face of immense challenges.

Sworn in amid allegations of electoral fraud and repression, Maduro’s third term deepens Venezuela’s political and economic crises.

Nicolás Maduro’s inauguration on January 10, 2025, for a third six-year term has reignited political turmoil in Venezuela. The event, marred by allegations of massive electoral fraud, was condemned by the opposition as a “coup d’état” and has further isolated Maduro internationally.

Initially coming to power in 2013 as Hugo Chávez’s designated successor, Maduro’s tenure has been characterized by authoritarianism, a collapsing economy, and widespread social unrest. Despite securing 52% of the vote, according to official counts, the opposition and international observers have pointed to irregularities, including the refusal of the National Electoral Council (CNE) to publish results, citing “computer hacking.”

The opposition’s preferred candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, was forced into exile after receiving threats from the regime. González claims to have evidence proving his victory with 67% of the vote, safeguarded in Panama, and continues to call for resistance against Maduro’s rule. His claim has been recognized by nations such as the United States, Brazil, and several European Union countries, heightening Venezuela’s diplomatic isolation.

On the domestic front, repression has reached alarming levels. Human rights groups report a spike in politically motivated arrests targeting journalists, activists, and opposition figures. Key opposition leader María Corina Machado was barred from running in the 2024 elections, further discrediting the democratic process.

Maduro, with unwavering support from the military and a deeply entrenched loyalist bureaucracy, faces growing defiance both internally and externally. Opposition groups, led by González and others, have vowed to escalate their efforts to challenge his rule. The international community, already skeptical of Maduro’s legitimacy, has amplified calls for a return to democracy, increasing the likelihood of further sanctions and diplomatic pressures.

As Maduro’s third term begins, Venezuela teeters on the edge of deeper political and economic collapse. The country’s future remains uncertain, with opposition leaders banking on international support and domestic dissent to challenge an increasingly fragile regime.

IRGC strengthens combat and reconnaissance capacity as tensions rise with Israel and the U.S.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has significantly bolstered its aerial capabilities with the delivery of 1,000 domestically produced drones, as reported by the state-run Tasnim news agency. This strategic enhancement of its drone fleet underscores Tehran’s preparedness for escalating tensions with regional rival Israel and the incoming administration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.

The newly deployed drones boast advanced features, including a range exceeding 2,000 kilometers, stealth capabilities with a low Radar Cross Section (RCS), and high destructive power designed to penetrate fortified defense systems. These capabilities not only enhance Iran’s reconnaissance operations and border security but also increase its capacity for precision strikes on distant targets.

This development follows the unveiling of Iran’s new suicide drone, the Razvan, and comes amid ongoing military drills. These exercises have seen the IRGC simulate the defense of key nuclear facilities, such as the Natanz complex, against potential missile and drone attacks.

The timing of this military upgrade is critical, with the region already on edge due to heightened rhetoric and shifting U.S. policies under Trump. Iran’s growing drone capabilities represent a direct challenge to Israel and the United States, signaling Tehran’s intent to maintain strategic deterrence and assert its military independence.

As Iran continues to expand its defense capabilities, the international community is closely monitoring its military advancements, particularly their implications for regional stability and security.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hails the Ethiopian Securities Exchange as a landmark economic reform to attract domestic and foreign investors.

After a 50-year hiatus, Ethiopia has reintroduced its stock exchange, the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s economic history. The initial cessation in 1974 followed a shift to communist rule, but the relaunch under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signals Ethiopia’s intent to integrate more deeply into global financial markets.

Speaking at the launch, Abiy declared the ESX a “historic milestone” in Ethiopia’s financial evolution, emphasizing its potential to attract investment and stimulate economic growth. In his remarks, he underscored the nation’s achievements, from running Africa’s largest airline to constructing the continent’s largest hydroelectric power project, the Grand Renaissance Dam.

The ESX debuts with Wegagen Bank as its first listed company, alongside founding members such as Ethio Telecom, Ethiopian Insurance Corporation, and Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Services Enterprise. Although not all founding members are currently listed, their involvement reflects the breadth of public-private partnerships shaping the exchange.

Structured as a public-private partnership, the ESX allocates 75% of its shares to private investors, with 25% reserved for public ownership. This blend, paired with extensive legislative and institutional groundwork, aims to ensure stability and transparency in the fledgling market.

Ethiopia’s economy, heavily reliant on agriculture and exports such as coffee and gold, has been navigating economic reforms, including the 2021 establishment of the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority to oversee securities trading. Recent policy changes, such as a market-based currency system, have attracted international financial support but also spurred inflation and higher living costs, which remain pressing concerns for citizens.

While the ESX relaunch signifies optimism, challenges persist. Security issues in regions like Amhara and Oromia pose risks to investor confidence. Economist Kibur Gena stressed the importance of peace and institutional strength in ensuring the exchange’s success. “If Ethiopia seeks to attract foreign direct investment, it must prioritize national stability and regulatory frameworks,” he noted.

The Ethiopian Securities Exchange stands as a symbol of the country’s ambition to diversify its economy, modernize its financial sector, and create a more inclusive economic environment. However, its success will hinge on addressing domestic challenges while sustaining investor confidence in a competitive global market.

Trump’s return could reshape U.S. foreign policy, with a focus on Middle East normalization, Iran containment, and economic priorities.

President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House is expected to bring substantial shifts in U.S. foreign and domestic policy, particularly in the Middle East. According to Dr. Shay Har-Zvi, a senior researcher at Reichman University, Trump’s leadership style—rooted in deal-making and leveraging U.S. strength—will drive a focused approach to securing his legacy.

Dr. Har-Zvi emphasized Trump’s likely prioritization of the Middle East, including resolving the Gaza conflict, brokering Israeli-Saudi normalization, and countering Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump sees these goals as interconnected, with normalization being pivotal for forming a regional coalition against Tehran and unlocking economic opportunities for both the region and the U.S.

Har-Zvi predicts that Trump will pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accommodate Saudi demands, including ending the Gaza war and offering a political horizon to the Palestinians. “Trump is likely to take a business-like approach, leveraging U.S. support to push for concessions that align with broader regional stability,” he explained.

On Iran, Trump is expected to pursue a “nuclear deal 2.0,” combining economic sanctions with potential military threats to deter Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. However, a key question remains whether he will push for a comprehensive agreement or accept a compromise to avoid escalating the Israel-Iran conflict.

Trump’s overarching foreign policy will likely aim to confront China while resolving other conflicts, such as in Ukraine, to redirect U.S. resources and focus. His past term demonstrated a willingness to pressure allies and demand tangible returns on U.S. investments in global security, an approach Israel must prepare for as it navigates these shifting dynamics.

Dr. Har-Zvi concludes that Trump’s influence is already shaping regional conversations, from hostage negotiations to normalization efforts. The potential for bold, sweeping changes under his leadership underscores the importance of strategic foresight as the Middle East braces for another term of Trump’s unorthodox and high-stakes diplomacy.

Outgoing National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan calls for continuity in U.S. strategy to counter China and North Korea.

As the Biden administration prepares to hand over power to President-elect Donald Trump, outgoing National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is advocating for continuity in the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy. Sullivan emphasized the success of Biden’s approach in countering regional adversaries, particularly China and North Korea, through strong alliances and partnerships.

Sullivan highlighted significant advancements under the Biden administration, including the strengthening of the Quad alliance with India, Japan, and Australia, and the AUKUS security pact with the UK and Australia. He also praised trilateral cooperation with Japan and South Korea, which has improved collective deterrence against North Korea’s nuclear threats and Beijing’s assertiveness in the South China Sea.

The Trump administration’s incoming foreign policy team, led by prominent China hawks, may sustain adversarial stances toward Beijing. However, questions remain about whether Trump will emphasize multilateral alliances or revert to bilateral engagements and protectionist trade policies.

Trump’s past skepticism of alliances could disrupt progress, particularly if he scales back initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework or de-emphasizes partnerships seen as burdensome. Analysts warn that such a shift could embolden adversaries like China, which has expanded its influence through economic agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

Sullivan underscored the importance of U.S. credibility in the region, linking support for Ukraine against Russia to the need for robust Indo-Pacific alliances. He cautioned that weakening U.S. support for global partners could embolden China’s ambitions toward Taiwan and other contested territories.

The future of U.S. policy in the Indo-Pacific hangs in the balance, with Trump’s approach likely to redefine America’s role in one of the world’s most strategically significant regions.

 Criticism mounts as inexperienced Somali officials, including President Mohamud’s daughter, meet Egypt’s top military brass.

A Somali delegation’s recent visit to Cairo has ignited widespread criticism, underscoring the fragile state of Somalia’s governance. The team, led by Somalia’s Minister of Defense—dubbed “Minister TikTok” due to his online notoriety—lacked military experience and included relatives of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, raising questions about nepotism and competence.

The Somali representatives, which included Jihan Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the president’s daughter, and other civilian officials, met with Egypt’s top military leaders, including General Abdul Majid Saqar, Egypt’s Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The stark disparity in experience between the two delegations highlighted Somalia’s ongoing governance crisis, marked by a reliance on unqualified individuals in critical roles.

Public sentiment reflected outrage and dismay, with Somali citizens taking to social media to voice their frustrations. Critics accused President Mohamud of undermining national progress through nepotism and weakening Somalia’s institutions by prioritizing personal alliances over merit-based leadership.

The Cairo meeting, ostensibly aimed at discussing defense collaboration, instead became a symbol of Somalia’s vulnerability on the international stage. While Egyptian officials presented a cadre of seasoned military leaders, Somalia’s delegation lacked both the expertise and credibility needed to navigate such high-stakes discussions.

Observers argue that the episode underscores deeper systemic issues, including the erosion of Somalia’s institutional integrity and a leadership culture driven by self-interest rather than national advancement. As Somalia grapples with internal instability and regional security challenges, the delegation’s composition risks further damaging the country’s already fragile reputation.

This controversy serves as a reminder of the pressing need for governance reforms and leadership accountability in Somalia to address its enduring struggles and restore confidence in its ability to represent and protect its national interests.

Salvadorans and Venezuelans among beneficiaries as Biden administration shields immigrants from looming Republican deportation plans.

In a last-minute move before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, President Joe Biden has extended temporary protected status (TPS) for more than 800,000 immigrants, including 230,000 Salvadorans and 600,000 Venezuelans. The decision offers a lifeline to individuals from disaster-stricken or conflict-ridden nations, providing temporary legal protection as fears mount over Trump’s promise of mass deportations.

The Department of Homeland Security cited severe environmental conditions in El Salvador, including a series of catastrophic weather events, as justification for the extension. Venezuelans, whose nation remains gripped by political turmoil under President Nicolás Maduro, were similarly granted extended protections. The timing coincided with Maduro’s controversial swearing-in for a third term, which the U.S. condemned by issuing a $65 million bounty on his arrest.

TPS has long been a critical safety net for immigrants, protecting individuals from 17 countries, including Haiti, Honduras, Sudan, and Afghanistan. Despite offering legal status, the program does not provide a pathway to citizenship, leaving beneficiaries vulnerable to political shifts. Salvadorans, who first gained TPS following devastating earthquakes in 2001, are among the largest groups benefiting from this provision.

Activists welcomed the move but warned of future challenges. Felipe Arnoldo Díaz of the National TPS Alliance called the extension a “small victory,” noting that many other nations with TPS designations face imminent expiration.

This humanitarian gesture underscores the stark contrast between Biden’s administration and the incoming Trump presidency. Trump has pledged the largest deportation campaign in U.S. history, and during his 2024 campaign, he and running mate JD Vance indicated plans to scale back TPS significantly. In his first term, Trump moved to terminate TPS for El Salvador, a decision ultimately stalled in court.

With the extension, Biden offers temporary reprieve to hundreds of thousands of immigrants while highlighting the uncertain future they face under an administration poised to reshape America’s immigration landscape.