Joseph Khalil Aoun (Joseph Aoun), born on January 10, 1964, in Sin el-Fil, a suburb of Beirut, is a well-known Lebanese general and the 14th President of Lebanon, taking office on January 9, 2025. He hails from a Maronite Christian family that originally comes from the village of Aishiyeh in the Jezzine district. Aoun has a bachelor’s degree in political science with a focus on international affairs and also holds a military sciences degree.
Military Career
In 1983, Joseph Aoun joined the Lebanese Army as an officer cadet amidst the chaos of Lebanon’s Civil War. He steadily climbed the military hierarchy, eventually reaching the position of Brigadier General in 2013. On March 8, 2017, he was appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
He demonstrated exceptional leadership during counterterrorism operations against organizations like ISIS and the Nusra Front. His notable achievements include leading the successful Fajr al-Joroud operation in August 2017, which aimed to oust militants from eastern Lebanon.
Presidency
On January 9, 2025, Joseph Aoun became the president of Lebanon after a lengthy political stalemate. His election was seen as a crucial move in bringing stability to the country, which has been grappling with sectarian divisions and economic hardships. Prior to his presidency, the Lebanese parliament had twice extended his military mandate, demonstrating their trust in his ability to lead during tumultuous periods.
Age
Joseph Aoun was born on January 10, 1964. As 2025, he is 60 years old.
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Parents and Family
Joseph Aoun, hailing from a Maronite Christian family in the Sin el-Fil suburb of Beirut, had his mother witness his ascension to the position of Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, while his father had already departed before he reached this momentous milestone in his professional journey.
Wife and Children
Joseph Aoun is in a marital relationship with Nehmat Nehmeh. They have two children together, named Khalil and Nour. Aoun’s family life showcases their dedication to both personal and national values, as he has devoted a significant portion of his professional life to serving Lebanon in different military roles.
Joseph Aoun Religion
Joseph Aoun adheres to the Maronite Christian faith, which corresponds to Lebanon’s system of sectarian power-sharing wherein the office of the presidency is exclusively designated for a Maronite individual.
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Social Media Presence
He is reported to have an official Instagram account under the handle @presidentaoun, where he shares updates related to his presidency and public engagements.
FAQs about Joseph Aoun
Who is Joseph Aoun?
Joseph Aoun is the newly elected President of Lebanon, having assumed office on January 9, 2025. He previously served as the Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces since 2017, where he was recognized for his leadership during significant military operations and national crises.
What are his major accomplishments?
During his military career, Joseph Aoun led successful operations against ISIS and other militant groups along the Syrian border. His leadership has been credited with maintaining stability within the Lebanese Armed Forces during periods of political and economic turmoil.
What challenges does he face as president?
Joseph Aoun’s presidency comes at a time when Lebanon is grappling with severe economic challenges, political divisions, and security issues related to Hezbollah and Israel. His ability to navigate these complexities will be crucial for stabilizing the country.
What support does he have?
Joseph Aoun has received backing from key international players, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, and France, positioning him as a consensus candidate capable of uniting various political factions in Lebanon.
What was the voting process for his election?
Aoun was elected after a second round of voting in Lebanon’s parliament, where he secured 99 votes out of 128, ending a two-year political vacuum following the term of former President Michel Aoun, which ended in October 2022.
What are his plans as president?
As president, Joseph Aoun aims to address Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis, maintain stability amid sectarian tensions, and oversee reconstruction efforts following conflicts with Israel and Hezbollah.
