The United States is advancing its diplomatic agenda under President Donald Trump, who has announced a series of key appointments, including the nomination of a new U.S. ambassador to Lebanon. Michel Issa has been tapped to replace Ambassador Liz Johnson, with the White House describing him as a "prominent businessman, financial expert, and leader with an outstanding career in banking, entrepreneurship, and international trade."

Massad Boulos, Trump’s senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, emphasized that Issa’s selection underscores the importance of Lebanon and the Lebanese-American community to the administration.

“This appointment highlights President Trump’s recognition of Lebanon’s significance, especially within his broader vision for peace in the region,” Boulos told Annahar.

Boulos also revealed that another Lebanese-American is expected to be appointed as the U.S. ambassador to an Arab country.

“With the appointment of Tom Barrack as the ambassador to Turkey, there will now be a total of three ambassadors of Lebanese origin, along with one of Yemeni descent, serving in the region,” he added.

Issa, originally from the town of Bsous in Lebanon’s Aley district, spent his early years in Beirut before moving to Paris and later settling in New York. He currently resides in Florida. His LinkedIn profile states that he studied economics at Paris Nanterre University before launching a career in the banking sector. He later transitioned to the automotive industry, acquiring several major dealership networks.

Boulos described Issa as a “highly respected professional with exceptional expertise in banking and business leadership.” He added that the incoming ambassador is a staunch supporter of Trump and is expected to serve with “honor and distinction.”

According to Boulos, Issa is likely to assume his post in Beirut within approximately three months.

Meanwhile, as tensions persist in southern Lebanon, questions have emerged over the direction of U.S. diplomacy in the region. Addressing concerns over the fragile ceasefire, Boulos reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to monitoring and enforcing the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

“The Lebanese government is expected to fully comply with this agreement and all relevant Security Council resolutions,” he said. “The shared objective remains the disarmament and dismantling of Hezbollah’s financial infrastructure, as well as that of all other armed groups.”