Political, security significance of resumption of direct flights between Lebanon, US
BEIRUT: Lebanon hailed US President Donald Trump’s announcement that he ordered all American airlines to resume direct flights to Lebanon.
He made the announcement earlier this week following a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House.
The move carries political, economic and security significance, reflecting a shift in the way the US views Lebanon and paving the way for a new chapter in relations.
All US flights were suspended in 1985 after the hijacking of TWA Flight 847 from Athens, Greece, en route to Rome, Italy. The flight was forced to land in Beirut. During the 17-day ordeal, a US Navy diver was killed. The US held Hezbollah responsible for the operation.
