Newly-appointed Salam receives overwhelming support

Sunni Muslim Salam has approval from across the political spectrum Lebanon’s newly-appointed Prime Minister Tammam Salam, announced that the overwhelming support he has received to succeed former Prime Minister Najob Mikati places a huge burden on his shoulders.Salam received 124 out of a possible 128 votes by way of political endorsement.  He noted that the almost unanimous decision was a "major boost"   for the country, and was hopeful of positive effects of the regional and international consensus behind his name.
In an interview with the BBC, Salam disclosed that the Iranian Ambassador Ghazanfar Roknabadi conveyed a message to him from the Iranian leadership wishing him success in forming a government.
Speaking about weapons held by Hezbollah, Salam said resisting Israel is "legitimate,"  but the decision between war and peace must be taken by the Lebanese state, and any use of weapons at the household level must come to an end.
Salam has received support from a number of world leaders, including congratulatory telegrams from the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and from the Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Lebanon's new prime minister also received  a congratulatory visit from Russian Ambassador Alexander Sasbekean and Iranian Ambassador Ghazanfar Abadi, who confirmed his country’s support for Lebanon.
Commenting on the appointment, Lebanese MP Nihad Mashnouk said "We have entered a new stage of independence and stability in Lebanon."
Minister of Culture in the former caretaker government Gabe Lyon said, "I add my voice to the unanimous consensus as it promises a unity government that will help Lebanon in this dangerous stage internally and regionally."