Berri’s bloc leans toward backing Joseph Aoun

The Development and Liberation Bloc, led by Speaker Nabih Berri, appears to be leaning towards supporting Army Chief Joseph Aoun in Thursday’s presidential election, according to media reports on Wednesday.

An-Nahar newspaper reported that the bloc is showing an inclination to back General Joseph Aoun. Meanwhile, sources from the bloc told LBCI television that their earlier statement reaffirmed a commitment to achieving consensus among Lebanese political factions. The sources indicated that if this consensus points toward electing the army commander, the bloc would support it.

However, conflicting reports have emerged. Sky News Arabia cited sources suggesting that Berri has not yet provided a definitive response regarding his position or Hezbollah’s stance on Joseph Aoun’s candidacy. Similarly, Radio VDL News (93.3) quoted senior sources stating that claims about the Shiite Duo’s endorsement of Aoun are inaccurate. These sources argued that such reports are attempts to influence various parties and generate momentum around a potential presidential candidate.