History of Michel Aoun

Michel Aoun is a prominent figure in Lebanese politics, known for his tumultuous yet influential role over several decades. Born on September 30, 1933, in Haret Hreik, a suburb of Beirut, Aoun's early life was characterized by emergence during a time of significant political and social upheaval in Lebanon. After earning a degree in literature from the Jesuit University in Beirut, he later attended military school and graduated as an artillery officer in 1955. This marked the beginning of his ascent through the ranks of the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Aoun's political career is heavily intertwined with his military service, which saw him rise to become a pivotal figure during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). His command capabilities led to his appointment as head of the Lebanese Army in 1984, a position that put him at the epicenter of Lebanon's complex political and sectarian conflicts. In 1988, at the height of the civil war, outgoing Lebanese President Amin Gemayel appointed Aoun as interim Prime Minister and head of an interim military government, an unusual and contentious decision that was not recognized by all Lebanese factions, further deepening the civil conflict.

The Lebanese Civil War period was marked by Aoun's devastating battles against Syrian forces and Palestinian Liberation Organization militias. One of his notable moves during his tenure as interim Prime Minister was declaring a "war of liberation" against Syrian troops in Lebanon in 1989, a decision that earned him both praise and criticism. He opposed the Taif Agreement—the accord meant to provide the foundation for ending the civil war—arguing that it granted Syria too much control over Lebanese affairs. Ultimately, however, his forces were defeated with the help of Syrian and Lebanese rival factions in October 1990, and Aoun was forced to seek refuge in the French Embassy before going into exile in France.

Exile did not diminish Aoun's political influence. Instead, it allowed him to cultivate his role as a symbol of Lebanese sovereignty and opposition to Syrian dominance in Lebanon. From France, he remained vocal, engaging with the Lebanese diaspora and international community about Lebanon's sovereignty issues, leveraging media and diplomatic channels. This persistent advocacy helped keep alive the dialogue about Lebanon’s independence and sovereignty, sowing the seeds for his eventual return to influence in his home country.

Aoun returned to Lebanon in 2005, following the withdrawal of Syrian troops, an event catalyzed by the Cedar Revolution and the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. The political landscape in Lebanon had shifted significantly, and Aoun founded the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), which quickly became a major political force. His return was emblematic of the broader regional and electoral shifts within Lebanon, emphasizing sectarian dynamics and the complex spectrum of alliances.

In the 2005 and 2009 parliamentary elections, the Free Patriotic Movement, under Aoun's leadership, gained significant influence. Aoun’s alliances were often surprising; despite his historic stance against Syrian influence, he formed key alliances with Hezbollah, a party heavily backed by Syria and Iran. This strategic alignment was seen as both pragmatic and controversial, reflecting the complex realities of Lebanese politics, where shifting alliances are often necessitated by the sectarian balance of power.

Aoun’s long-standing ambition to become President of Lebanon was realized on October 31, 2016, after a protracted stalemate that left the presidential post vacant for over two years. His election was the result of a political deal and shifting alliances within the Lebanese Parliament. As President, Aoun confronted Lebanon's considerable challenges, including political paralysis, economic struggles, and refugee crises. His presidential tenure was marked by efforts to stabilize Lebanon’s economy, though his term also saw increasing public frustration over governmental inaction and corruption.

On the international stage, Aoun's presidency navigated Lebanon's complex relations with regional powers such as Iran, Syria, and Saudi Arabia, as well as the international community. In his dealings, Aoun underscored Lebanon’s sovereignty and weathered numerous geopolitical tensions.

Aoun’s tenure also encompassed the devastating Beirut Port explosion in August 2020, a catastrophic event symbolizing governmental shortcomings and prompting nationwide protests demanding accountability and reform. His presidency was criticized for its perceived inability to enact meaningful reforms or address systemic corruption, issues that have long plagued Lebanon.

As his presidency drew to a close in October 2022, Michel Aoun left a mixed legacy, characterized by unwavering commitment to his vision of Lebanese sovereignty, controversial political choices, and a presidency marked by economic and social crises. Nonetheless, Aoun remains a figure of considerable influence in Lebanon, embodying both the potential and complexities of leadership in a deeply divided nation. His political journey from army general to president reflects the broader historical narratives of conflict, resistance, and fragile attempts at peace and stability in Lebanon.