Trump meets with Lebanon's president at White House

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump pledged significant support to Lebanon during a White House meeting with Lebanese leader Joseph Aoun, emphasizing respect and assistance without providing specific details.
• Trump announced the resumption of direct U.S. airline flights to Lebanon for the first time in over 40 years, though practical challenges remain due to regional instability and Hezbollah's influence.
• Lebanon and Israel have initiated a U.S.-mediated "framework agreement" aimed at Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon and disarmament of Hezbollah, with initial operations in designated pilot zones showing mixed progress and some conflict.
• U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stressed ongoing support for Lebanon's efforts to strengthen state control and reduce Hezbollah's influence, while Israeli officials plan a continued military presence in southern Lebanon.
• Lebanon's government, elected on a reformist platform, seeks Israeli withdrawal and international aid to stabilize the country amid internal divisions and the aftermath of recent conflicts involving Hezbollah and Israel.