Iran Says Aoun's Election 'Consolidates Democracy, Ensures Stability'

Iran's foreign ministry on Monday congratulated the Lebanese people and all Lebanese parties on the election of Free Patriotic Movement founder Michel Aoun as president, calling the election "an important step to consolidate democracy and ensure Lebanon's stability."

Aoun is allied with Tehran-backed Hizbullah and the latter's support for his nomination had played a key role in boosting his presidential chances.

Aoun was tipped to become president after receiving support from al-Mustaqbal Movement leader ex-PM Saad Hariri, who is close to Iran's regional rival Saudi Arabia.

The election put an end to around two and a half years of presidential and political vacuum.