US President Donald Trump met Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, marking the first diplomatic meeting between the two countries’ leaders in decades. The brief meeting came after the US lifted sanctions on Syria, with Trump stating the move is designed to “give them a chance at greatness.”
“We’re going to forge a Middle East that is thriving,” Trump said during a speech at the Gulf Cooperation Council summit in Riyadh. He expressed his desire for a deal with Iran, but emphasized that Tehran must stop “sponsoring terror” and “must not have a nuclear weapon.” Trump’s remarks drew condemnation from Iranian officials, with Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemning Trump’s statements as “deceptive.”
Key Developments:
- US Sanctions: Trump announced the lifting of sanctions on Syria, paving the way for substantial Saudi and Turkish investment in the country.
- Syrian Leadership: Al-Sharaa’s meeting with Trump marks a significant turnaround for the Syrian president, who was once a jihadist with a $10m bounty on his head.
- Regional Implications: The meeting is seen as a key opportunity to strengthen Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for the future of the Middle East.
Trump’s meeting with al-Sharaa is expected to grant international legitimacy to the Syrian leader, who has scored big successes on regional and international levels. Some analysts believe the move could lead to a more stable government in Syria, while others worry about the potential implications for social freedoms in the country.
Mouaz Moustafa, head of the US-based Syria Emergency Task Force, welcomed the meeting, saying, “For the first time in decades, Syria has hope.” He added that the war-torn nation now has the chance to become a “prosperous, stable and safe democracy.”