Lebanon's parliament has elected army commander Joseph Aoun as president, ending a two-year-long presidential vacuum. Aoun was seen as the preferred candidate of the United States and Saudi Arabia, who will provide assistance for reconstruction and ensure Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Hezbollah, previously backing another candidate, withdrew from the race and endorsed Aoun. The next government will face challenges in implementing the ceasefire agreement, seeking funds for reconstruction, and addressing the country's economic and financial crisis.