Senior officials in Beirut believe Lebanon is heading towards a difficult phase, with a new US-Saudi-backed security-political order emerging in the region in coordination with the Israeli entity.

The meeting between Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Hezbollah’s Loyalty to the Resistance bloc, led by MP Mohammad Raad, marked a key step in defusing tensions.

Leaks circulating in Lebanese political and media circles indicate that the upcoming visit of US Deputy Envoy to the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, will include “adopting a firmer and more assertive tone” in her meetings with Lebanese officials.

The Lebanese municipal elections cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader political dynamics shaping Lebanon.