Trump Directs US Airlines to Launch Direct Flights to Lebanon Following Meeting with President Aoun

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday night that he has instructed his administration to allow all American airlines to operate direct flights to Lebanon. This decision aims to facilitate easier travel for US citizens wishing to visit Lebanon. The announcement came shortly after Trump met with Lebanese President Michel Aoun at the White House, marking the first visit by a Lebanese president there in 17 years.

In his statement, Trump praised President Aoun's efforts to reform Lebanon and expressed hope that other countries would follow the US lead in establishing direct air links. The meeting took place amid recent security developments along the Israel-Lebanon border, including a pilot operation where the Israel Defense Forces withdrew from certain southern Lebanese areas, allowing the Lebanese army to enter.

During the talks, Trump addressed several regional issues, emphasizing that the US will maintain pressure on Iran and is not ready to cease efforts against Tehran's nuclear ambitions. He noted that Iran is eager to renew talks with Washington but insisted that meaningful steps from Iran are required before negotiations can resume. Trump also commented on Hezbollah, stating he has no principled objection to dialogue with the group but affirmed that the US has well-prepared plans to deal with it.

Additionally, Trump highlighted the Abraham Accords as a significant regional success and predicted that more countries would soon join the peace process. He suggested that Lebanon holds an important role in the expanding regional framework, hinting at potential future inclusion.

The directive to open direct flights is part of a broader US strategy to strengthen ties with Lebanon and support stability in the region.