Trump, Aoun Discuss Lebanon Flights; Direct Flights Allowed
President Trump, citing a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, announced that U.S. air carriers will be allowed to fly directly to Lebanon for the first time since 1985, signaling a potential boost to travel and Lebanon’s economy. The FAA said it would work with airlines to implement the directive and restore direct flights, while the State Department continues to advise Americans not to travel to Lebanon due to security risks. Trump praised Aoun’s leadership and suggested additional countries could follow, and he signaled discussions about Hezbollah and broader Middle East issues, including potential implications for Iran. Beirut’s direct-air-link revival comes amid ongoing U.S.-Lebanon discussions, including aid for the Lebanese Armed Forces and efforts to address Hezbollah’s influence, with Trump open to speaking with Hezbollah if Lebanon requests it. Critics noted the move against a backdrop of regional tensions and continuing travel advisories, underscoring a complex geopolitics context around aviation, security, and diplomacy.



