In a historic diplomatic shift, President Donald Trump met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House, marking the first visit by a Syrian leader to Washington since 1946. The meeting came as the U.S. extended sanctions relief for six months, easing restrictions under the Caesar Act to support Syria’s post-war reconstruction.
Al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander who led the 2024 uprising that toppled Bashar al-Assad, has rebranded himself as a nationalist reformer. During talks, Trump praised him as “a tough guy from a tough place,” saying the U.S. would “do everything we can to make Syria successful.” Discussions focused on rebuilding ties, counterterrorism, and regional stability.
Although security was tight and no joint press event was held, officials confirmed that Syria will join the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS and reopen its embassy in Washington.
The decision to suspend sanctions divided U.S. lawmakers. Senator Jeanne Shaheen supports a full repeal, while Lindsey Graham seeks conditional reviews — a move critics say could deter investors.
Trump hinted that Washington is mediating security talks between Syria and Israel, signaling a potential realignment in the Middle East. “We’ve all had rough pasts,” Trump said, “but Syria now has a chance at greatness.”
Once imprisoned by the U.S., al-Sharaa’s transformation from militant to partner reflects both his pragmatic turn and Trump’s willingness to rewrite alliances in pursuit of global politics.
