US President Donald Trump met with interim Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, marking the first encounter between their nations’ leaders in 25 years. The meeting could serve as a turning point for Syria as it navigates decades of international isolation.
Trump praised Al-Sharaa, calling him a “young, attractive guy. Tough guy. Strong past. Very strong past. Fighter.” Al-Sharaa, who has ties to al-Qaida, led insurgents battling US forces in Iraq before entering the Syrian war.
The meeting came after Trump announced plans to lift US sanctions on Syria, which have crippled the country’s economy. People across Syria cheered as they celebrated the announcement, hoping their nation will rejoin the global economy when it needs investments most.
Syria’s new leader is seen as a potential bulwark against Iran’s return to influence in Syria. However, Israel has been deeply skeptical of Al-Sharaa’s extremist past and cautioned against swift recognition of the new government.
The historic meeting marks a significant shift for Syria, which has struggled under decades of international isolation. Trump’s move aims to give the country “a fresh start” and provides an opportunity for stability, self-sufficiency, and national reconstruction led by the Syrian people.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-syria-saudi-arabia-sharaa-assad-sanctions-bb208f25cfedecd6446fd1626012c0fb