Trump Promises Support For Lebanon's Peace Efforts With Israel Amid Regional Tensions
Trump backs Lebanon's efforts for Israel peace.
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday pledged strong support for Lebanon as Lebanese President Joseph Aoun sought Washington’s backing for efforts to strengthen the country’s armed forces, reduce the influence of Hezbollah and pursue a path toward peace with Israel. The meeting at the White House marked a significant diplomatic engagement between the two leaders as Lebanon faces political, security and economic challenges. Aoun, the first Lebanese president invited to Washington since 2009, requested continued US political support and assistance for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
He stressed the importance of strengthening the country’s military institution, saying stability would be difficult to maintain without the army playing a central role in security arrangements. "We need to support the LAF," Aoun said during discussions with Trump. "Without the LAF, everything will collapse." His remarks came as the Lebanese military has begun expanding deployments in southern areas under a US-backed framework agreement with Israel.
Trump, while welcoming Aoun at the White House, described Lebanon as a country that had suffered for decades. He said Lebanon had been "mistreated" and faced serious challenges but praised the commitment of its people to their country. "It's probably a dangerous place in a lot of ways," Trump told reporters. "But they love the country... and we're going to help it. We're going to help it a lot." The US president did not provide detailed information about the scale or nature of future assistance but indicated Washington’s willingness to support Lebanon.
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The discussions also focused on broader regional security concerns, including efforts linked to Hezbollah’s military presence and Lebanon’s relationship with Israel. The Lebanese government has faced pressure to strengthen state control over armed groups, while Hezbollah has remained one of the most powerful political and military actors in the country. Following the meeting, Trump announced that he would authorize the resumption of direct flights by US airlines to Lebanon.
Commercial flights between the two countries had been suspended for more than four decades following the 1985 hijacking of a TWA flight by Lebanese Islamist militants, an incident that involved several American passengers. The restoration of direct air links was presented as part of broader efforts to improve ties between the United States and Lebanon. Officials said stronger diplomatic and economic engagement could support Lebanon’s recovery and help strengthen relations between the two countries.
Lebanon has experienced years of political instability, economic difficulties and security challenges, including tensions along its southern border with Israel. The government has been seeking international assistance to strengthen state institutions and improve security conditions. Trump’s meeting with Aoun signals continued US involvement in Lebanon’s future as Washington balances regional security priorities with diplomatic efforts. The outcome of these initiatives will depend on developments inside Lebanon, including the role of the Lebanese military and ongoing discussions over armed groups and relations with neighbouring countries.
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