Lebanese political leaders are in talks to elect a new president, but consensus is uncertain. Army chief Joseph Aoun is seen as the frontrunner, with some believing he can oversee the military's deployment in south Lebanon. However, some parties are reluctant to back him. France and the US have urged Lebanon to elect a president, and Saudi Arabia is reportedly trying to convince hesitant blocs to support Aoun. The president must be a Maronite Christian and traditionally needs backing from one of the country's major Christian parties.