In a historic moment, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa made his first visit to the White House, marking the first time a Syrian head of state has visited since Syria gained independence in 1946. President Donald Trump welcomed al-Sharaa on Monday, emphasizing the inclusion of Syria into a U.S.-led global coalition aimed at combating the Islamic State group.
Al-Sharaa’s arrival at the White House was notable not only because of the significance of the visit but also due to the long-standing tensions between the U.S. and Syria. The meeting, conducted in the Oval Office, was closed to reporters, but followed a path different from that typically used by foreign dignitaries, highlighting the unique nature of this visit. After the meeting, al-Sharaa greeted supporters gathered outside before leaving in his motorcade.
This visit comes on the heels of a pivotal change in U.S. policy towards Syria, as sanctions imposed during the Assad regime have been lifted, allowing for renewed dialogue between the two nations. Al-Sharaa, who led the rebel forces that ousted former President Bashar Assad last December, has been hailed by Trump as a formidable new leader, demonstrating a remarkable shift from the animosity that characterized U.S.-Syrian relations under prior administrations.
Discussing al-Sharaa’s reputation, Trump has portrayed him positively, noting that much progress has been achieved since the easing of sanctions. U.S. forces are now expected to collaborate more closely with the newly formed Syrian military and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, who are actively involved in fighting against the Islamic State with the aim of stabilizing the region.
Leading up to the visit, the United Nations Security Council made the decision to lift sanctions on al-Sharaa and other Syrian officials, reflecting a broader movement toward a new era for Syria. However, al-Sharaa has expressed interest in a permanent repeal of sanctions imposed on Syria due to allegations of human rights abuses during the Assad government. The current waiver of the Caesar Act sanctions will require congressional action for any permanent changes.
Potential paths to a repeal have emerged, including proposals from Senate leaders that would address the conditions surrounding sanctions. While one proposal suggests an unconditional repeal, another emphasizes regular reviews of conditions. Advocates of the unconditional repeal argue that any conditional measures would deter investors, creating a climate of uncertainty for potential economic initiatives in Syria.
This historic visit not only symbolizes a thaw in relations but also signals the global community’s interest in fostering stability in Syria. As leaders seek to navigate the complexities of rebuilding a war-torn nation, the collaborative efforts to combat extremism present a hopeful avenue toward peace and recovery in the region.