Beirut: Information Minister Paul Morcos announced that US support for Lebanon is expanding beyond military assistance to include efforts to mobilize international backing and encourage investment following President Joseph Aoun's visit to Washington. This development could also lead to the US participating in a conference aimed at supporting Lebanon.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Morcos revealed in an interview with Saudi Al Ekhbariya that the Lebanese government is finalizing logistical and technical arrangements to initiate direct flights between Lebanon and the United States. This initiative marks a significant breakthrough after four decades without a direct air link, facilitated by renewed US encouragement and eased security concerns that had previously hindered American investment and direct aviation links.
Morcos expressed confidence in the Lebanese Armed Forces, emphasizing that Aoun had demonstrated the army's capability to US President Donald Trump during their meeting. He stated that US military assistance and training programs are expected to continue and possibly expand, thereby enhancing the army's operational readiness.
Morcos further elaborated on the army's deployment in Zawtar al-Gharbiya, describing it as a pilot model that would be assessed and refined. He reiterated Lebanon's demand for a complete Israeli withdrawal and noted Trump's openness to engage with Hezbollah if requested by Aoun, highlighting the Lebanese state's authority over such initiatives. Regarding Syria, Morcos mentioned that bilateral ties are developing towards a relationship between two sovereign states, with current agreements under review to ensure greater balance and mutual respect.