Syria will join the international coalition to combat the Islamic State group following a meeting between President Donald Trump and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. This marks a significant shift in US foreign policy in the Middle East.

At a glance

  • Syria's participation in the coalition was confirmed by a senior Trump administration official.
  • This is the first visit by a Syrian leader to the White House in history.
  • Al-Sharaa was recently removed from the US terrorist list after a controversial past.

    • Historic Meeting at the White House

    President Donald Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House, marking a historic moment in US-Syrian relations. This meeting is notable as it is the first time a Syrian leader has visited the White House. The meeting comes after years of suspended diplomatic relations between the two nations, which have been in place since 2012. During the meeting, Trump expressed his support for al-Sharaa, who was previously designated a terrorist by the US government. Trump stated, "We want to see Syria become a country that's very successful," indicating a shift in US policy towards Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.

    Al-Sharaa's Background and Transformation

    Ahmed al-Sharaa's journey to the presidency has been complex. He was once the leader of a branch of Al-Qaeda and led an armed Islamist group that was considered a terrorist organization by the US until recently. Just last week, the US Treasury Department removed him from its "specially designated global terrorist list." Since assuming the role of interim president, al-Sharaa has worked to improve his public image and focus on rebuilding Syria after years of conflict. Trump acknowledged al-Sharaa's difficult past but expressed optimism about his leadership capabilities.

    Challenges Ahead for Al-Sharaa

    Despite the positive developments, al-Sharaa's presidency faces significant challenges. His rule has been marred by violence, including killings of members of Syria's Alawite minority and conflicts between different militia groups. He has pledged to address human rights violations committed by his security forces. Trump's administration has indicated that it will monitor al-Sharaa's actions closely. The US will assess his efforts to normalize ties with Israel and address the presence of foreign terrorists and militant groups in Syria.

    Future Announcements Expected

    Following the meeting, Trump hinted at more announcements regarding US-Syrian relations. He has previously signed an executive order lifting sanctions against Syria, which the administration claims will aid in the country's path to stability and peace. The evolving relationship between the US and Syria could have significant implications for the region's geopolitical landscape.