US President Donald Trump announced the nomination of Michel Issa as the next US ambassador to Lebanon on Friday evening. However, the nomination remains subject to confirmation by the US Senate, a step that could prove tricky given current political tensions.
“I am proud to nominate Michel Issa as US Ambassador to Lebanon,” Donald Trump said on his Truth Social network. “Michel is an outstanding businessman, financial expert, and recognized leader in banking, entrepreneurship, and international trade. I am confident he will represent our country with honor and dedication. Congratulations, Michel!”
Michel Issa, based in New York and originally from Beirut, holds a degree in economics from the University of Paris X. He began his career in banking, holding senior positions at Union de Banques Arabes et Françaises, Chase Manhattan Bank, Banque Indosuez, and Crédit Agricole. In 1999, he left the financial sector to enter the automotive industry, acquiring Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen dealerships. His business generated annual sales of $35 million before he sold the dealerships in 2010.
Michel Issa is also passionate about golf, tennis, and cars. He has a personal relationship with Donald Trump, with whom he regularly plays golf.
However, confirmation of his nomination by the Senate remains uncertain. Democrats have already expressed their intention to block certain diplomatic appointments in response to Trump's decision to reorganize the US Agency for International Development (USAID) by integrating it into the State Department.
If confirmed, Michel Issa will take over from Lisa A. Johnson, who was confirmed by the Senate in December 2023 and took up her post in Beirut in January 2024.
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