Trump says direct US-Lebanon flights could resume for first time in more than 40 years

President Donald Trump announced he will allow US airline carriers to resume direct flights to Lebanon, suspended since 1985 after the hijacking of TWA Flight 847.

Trump's announcement followed a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, the first by a Lebanese president since 2009.

Lebanon seeks Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon and support for its military to control areas previously held by Hezbollah.

A framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel on June 26, 2026, outlines Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah disarmament.