U.S. President Donald Trump announced on July 21 that he would allow American airlines to resume direct flights to Lebanon, reversing a decades-long ban imposed after a 1985 hijacking. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had prohibited commercial flights to Lebanon following the hijacking of TWA Flight 847, which was linked to Hezbollah. Trump made the announcement on Truth Social after meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House. 'I am hereby directing my Administration to allow all U.S. airline carriers to fly directly to Lebanon so that Americans can easily visit this beautiful land,' Trump wrote. He added that he hoped other countries would follow suit. The FAA ban was implemented after the hijackers, believed to be affiliated with Hezbollah, killed a U.S. Navy diver and deposited his body in Beirut. Trump also mentioned during the meeting that Lebanon had been 'a very badly treated place and country' and that his administration would 'help it a lot.'
Background on the Hijacking and Ban
The 1985 hijacking of TWA Flight 847 involved the abduction of passengers, including the murder of U.S. Navy diver Robert Stethem. The hijackers, suspected of ties to Hezbollah, demanded the release of over 700 Lebanese prisoners held by Israel. The incident led to the FAA's decision to ban direct flights to Lebanon, a restriction that remained in place for over 40 years.
Trump's Stance on Hezbollah and Israel
During a summit in France in June, Trump criticized Israeli strikes against Hezbollah, stating that 'too many people have been killed' and that Israel's actions were 'too harsh.' He also referred to recent Israeli strikes in Beirut as 'vicious' and 'too much.' Lebanon and Israel had previously announced a 'framework agreement' in June, outlining a plan for Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah disarmament in southern Lebanon. Trump also suggested that he might speak directly with Hezbollah if requested by Aoun.
Reaction and Implications
Trump's decision to lift the flight ban comes amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah. The move could facilitate travel and economic ties between the U.S. and Lebanon, though concerns about security and Hezbollah's influence remain. The administration has not provided further details on the directive or its implementation.