President Donald Trump said he has instructed federal agencies to permit American commercial airlines to operate direct flights to Lebanon. The move would reverse a long-standing ban and reopen a route that has been unavailable for decades.
The announcement followed a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. That timing suggests the decision is tied to broader discussions about US-Lebanon relations and a possible effort to strengthen practical links between the two countries.
If the policy is carried out, direct US flights to Lebanon could simplify travel for passengers who currently depend on connecting routes. The change would also represent a notable shift in how Washington handles civilian air access to Lebanon.
Key details, including when flights could begin and what regulatory or security steps airlines would need to complete, were not immediately clear. Even so, Trump’s directive points to a significant policy change with potential effects on travel, commerce and diplomatic engagement.
