Trump moves to restore direct US airline flights to Lebanon
Why it matters: The step follows White House talks with President Joseph Aoun and signals broader US backing for Lebanon as Washington tries to curb Hezbollah's influence.
President Donald Trump said Tuesday he was directing his administration to let all U.S. airlines fly directly to Lebanon after meeting Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House. Trump wrote that the move would make it easier for Americans to visit Lebanon and suggested other countries should follow. In Oval Office remarks, Trump called Lebanon “a country of great intellect” and said the United States would help it more, pointing to unresolved issues involving Hezbollah. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy later responded on X, “You got it, Mr. President.” The decision comes as Washington has pushed diplomacy involving Lebanon and Israel in an effort to reduce Hezbollah's sway and steady the region.