When the then-commander of the Lebanese army, Joseph Aoun, visited Saudi Arabia last December and was received by Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, it was no ordinary visit. It was an indication that Riyadh had actively resumed a positive role regarding Lebanon’s security and stability — especially given the devastating Israeli war on Gaza and Lebanon. With its political and economic capabilities, Saudi Arabia engaged in diplomatic efforts to stop the war and support the affected Arab countries.

Later, in the lead-up to Aoun’s election as president of Lebanon in January, the Saudi presence on the Lebanese political scene was significant. The name of Prince Yazid bin Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Farhan, adviser to the Saudi foreign minister on Lebanese affairs, emerged. Meanwhile, all eyes were on Saudi Ambassador to Beirut Walid Bukhari during his attendance at the parliamentary session where Aoun was elected president.

Riyadh understands that there is a political vacuum in Lebanon and the Syrian Arab Republic, particularly as the so-called Axis of Resistance has seen its influence wane following the collapse of Bashar Assad’s regime and the heavy losses suffered by Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. If no strong and active force works to organize and fill this vacuum with effective political engagement, it will negatively impact Middle Eastern security and stability. This could lead to chaos, the spread of armed militias and Israel’s continued killings, occupation and territorial expansion in the surrounding countries, through de facto policies.
Against this backdrop, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan visited the Lebanese capital on Jan. 23. He met with President Aoun, parliament speaker Nabih Berri, caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam. By meeting with all key figures in the Lebanese state, Prince Faisal signaled that Saudi Arabia maintains an equal distance from all components and supports national partnership based on the Lebanese constitution and the Taif Agreement.

In a brief statement, Prince Faisal deliberately conveyed positive but measured messages. He emphasized the Saudi leadership’s commitment to restoring Lebanon as a beacon in the region and a model of coexistence and prosperity. He praised President Aoun’s leadership and his inaugural speech, which set the right course. He stressed that “the Kingdom will stand by Lebanon and follow its new path step by step, working with its partners in this direction.”

The Saudi foreign minister revealed that “Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is open to proposals that will lead Lebanon toward a prosperous future,” adding that the Saudi leadership looks forward to an upcoming meeting with President Aoun to lay the foundations for bilateral cooperation. He stated: “Despite the shared challenges facing us in the region, the Kingdom is optimistic about Lebanon’s future in light of the reformist approach outlined in the president’s inaugural speech. Implementing these reforms will strengthen Lebanon’s credibility with its partners and pave the way for restoring its rightful place in the Arab and international spheres.”

The key themes in Prince Faisal’s remarks were “reforms” and the “inaugural speech.” Saudi Arabia is keen on seeing real change in Lebanon — politically, economically and in terms of security — through serious, actionable programs that revitalize the economy, develop state institutions and prevent security turmoil or political confrontations, both internally and with Arab nations.

After a 15-year absence, the Saudi visit presents an opportunity for Lebanon to capitalize on. If leveraged correctly, this support from Riyadh could serve as a prelude to broader Arab backing. Therefore, the policies of the soon-to-be-formed government and the cooperation of Lebanese parties and leaders with it will determine the extent of the Arab support for Beirut.

Several pressing issues need addressing, such as solidifying the ceasefire agreement and halting Israeli violations, ensuring the return of displaced persons, and reconstruction. While these are priorities, they depend on how Lebanese politicians address the country’s internal problems to establish genuine stability that fosters economic growth — free from financial corruption and sectarian quotas.

Lebanese internal dialogue, a clear roadmap for nationwide army deployment, exclusive state control over weapons, stopping drug trafficking, and preventing Lebanon from becoming a hub for groups and rhetoric inciting violence against Gulf states are all crucial matters. Additionally, Hezbollah’s future positioning — whether it remains aligned with regional axes as before or integrates into Lebanon’s domestic political process, while ceasing external support and training — remains a key issue.

Addressing these security and political files will help build trust and send a clear message that real change is happening, warranting support from Riyadh and other influential regional capitals.