Lebanese President-elect Joseph Aoun began consultations with parliamentary blocs on Monday to name a new prime minister.

The competition has mainly narrowed to two candidates: outgoing Prime Minister Najib Mikati and veteran diplomat Naufal Salam, who is supported by the opposition. Mikati, who led the country through a presidential vacancy and economic collapse, expressed his willingness to serve if necessary.

The next government will face significant challenges, including post-war reconstruction, implementing ceasefire agreements, and urgent economic reforms after Lebanon’s unprecedented financial collapse.