US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he has instructed his administration to allow American airlines to resume direct flights to Lebanon, ending a lengthy suspension of the routes.
The announcement was made in a post on Truth Social, shortly after Trump's meeting at the White House with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
Announcement follows White House meeting
Trump said the decision followed discussions with Aoun, whom he praised for efforts to improve conditions in Lebanon.
"After meeting with the President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, who has done a remarkable job working to transform his Country, I am hereby directing my Administration to allow all U.S. airline carriers to fly directly to Lebanon," Trump wrote.
Easier travel for Americans
Trump said the move would allow Americans to travel more easily to Lebanon, describing it as a "beautiful country."
The announcement signals a significant shift in US aviation policy towards Lebanon after years without direct commercial connections between the two countries.
