Who is Joseph Aoun (Lebanon's President): Biography, Career, Politics, and Net Worth

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Joseph Aoun, born on January 10, 1964, is a decorated military leader and politician who became the 14th President of Lebanon on January 9, 2025. Before assuming the presidency, he served as the Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) from 2017 to 2025. Aoun’s presidency marks a significant political milestone, ending a two-year presidential vacancy in Lebanon and representing a shift in regional and international alliances. His election was backed by the United States and Saudi Arabia, signaling reduced influence of Hezbollah in Lebanese politics.

Early Life and Education

• Birthplace: Sin el Fil, Mount Lebanon

• Date of Birth: January 10, 1964

• Family Background: Maronite Christian family originally from Al-Aaishiyah in Southern Lebanon

Joseph Aoun completed his secondary education at Collège des Frères Mont La Salle and joined the Lebanese Army Military Academy in 1983, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in military science. In 2007, he furthered his education by earning a bachelor’s degree in political science with a specialization in international affairs from the Lebanese American University (LAU).

Military Career

Early Service

• Aoun began his career as a lieutenant during the Lebanese Civil War and took part in key military operations, including the Adma Battle in 1990.

Leadership Roles

• Commander of the 9th Infantry Brigade: Appointed in 2015, he led forces stationed along Lebanon’s southern border with Israel, ensuring security in the volatile region.

• Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces: From March 8, 2017, to January 8, 2025, Aoun led the LAF during critical moments, including:

  • The 2017 "Jroud Dawn" operation, which successfully expelled ISIS militants from Lebanon’s eastern borders.

  • Efforts to maintain stability during nationwide protests in 2019 and Lebanon’s severe economic crisis starting in 2020.

Under his leadership, the LAF maintained its reputation as one of Lebanon’s most respected institutions, despite financial constraints and political challenges.

Presidency

Election

On January 9, 2025, Joseph Aoun was elected President of Lebanon, receiving 99 votes out of 128 in parliament. His election ended a prolonged political deadlock and was celebrated as a step toward restoring governmental functionality.

Key Policies and Initiatives

• Judicial Independence: Aoun has prioritized reforms to strengthen Lebanon’s judicial system.

• Anti-Corruption Measures: His administration has pledged to combat corruption, a persistent issue in Lebanese politics.

• Strengthening State Control: Aoun’s presidency aims to consolidate state authority over armed groups, addressing longstanding concerns about Hezbollah’s military presence.

Personal Life

• Spouse: Nehmat Nehmeh

• Children: Two

• Languages: Fluent in Arabic, French, and English

Although Joseph Aoun shares the same surname as Michel Aoun (a former Lebanese president), they are not related. He is known for his disciplined lifestyle and dedication to national service.

Net Worth

As of now, no public records detail President Joseph Aoun’s net worth. Lebanese officials’ financial disclosures are typically not made public. However, his career as a high-ranking military officer and later as president suggests a comfortable but modest lifestyle in line with his public service roles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Joseph Aoun’s political affiliation?

Joseph Aoun is not officially affiliated with any political party, which has helped him garner broad support in Lebanon’s divided political landscape.

2. When was Joseph Aoun elected President of Lebanon?

He was elected on January 9, 2025, ending a two-year presidential vacancy.

3. What are Joseph Aoun’s major achievements as Commander of the LAF?

• Led the successful Jroud Dawn operation in 2017.

• Maintained LAF’s integrity and stability during Lebanon’s economic crisis and mass protests.

4. Is Joseph Aoun related to Michel Aoun?

No, they are not related despite sharing the same surname.

5. What languages does Joseph Aoun speak?

He is fluent in Arabic, French, and English.

6. What is Joseph Aoun’s educational background?

He holds a bachelor’s degree in military science and a second bachelor’s degree in political science (specializing in international affairs).

7. What challenges does Joseph Aoun face as President?

Key challenges include:

• Reviving Lebanon’s collapsing economy.

• Addressing corruption and political paralysis.

• Reducing Hezbollah’s influence and ensuring state sovereignty.

8. What are his key priorities as President?

Judicial independence, anti-corruption reforms, and strengthening state control over armed groups.

9. What is Joseph Aoun’s stance on Hezbollah?

As president, he has called for strengthening state authority over all weapons in Lebanon, a veiled reference to reducing Hezbollah’s military influence.

10. How did Joseph Aoun’s military background prepare him for the presidency?

His extensive military experience gave him a deep understanding of national security, crisis management, and leadership during difficult times.

Joseph Aoun’s presidency represents a critical juncture in Lebanon’s history, offering hope for reform and stability in a nation grappling with economic collapse and political dysfunction. His military background and non-partisan stance position him as a unifying figure, although the challenges ahead are monumental. As Lebanon’s 14th president, his success will depend on his ability to navigate the country’s complex political landscape and deliver meaningful reforms.