WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump welcomed Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to the White House on Monday, coinciding with Washington’s decision to extend sanctions relief for Damascus.
The visit marked a major diplomatic turnaround, coming one year after al-Sharaa overthrew longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad.
Al-Sharaa, 43, became the first Syrian leader to visit the White House since Syria’s independence in 1946. Once a senior al-Qaeda commander, he has recast himself as a reformist leader seeking to rebuild Syria and restore global ties after years of war and isolation.
The Syrian presidency said the two leaders discussed ways to “strengthen and develop” bilateral relations and reviewed “regional and international issues of common interest.”
Trump praised al-Sharaa, calling him “a tough guy from a tough place.” He said Washington would “do everything we can to make Syria successful,” adding, “We have peace now in the Middle East — the first time anyone can remember that ever happening.”
From rebel commander to president
Al-Sharaa’s rise has been rapid. Known once as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, he led Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) before cutting ties with al-Qaeda in 2016. Captured by U.S. forces during the Iraq War, he reemerged as the political face of Syria’s post-Assad order after leading a coalition that toppled the regime last December.
He has since tried to project a moderate image. At the UN General Assembly, he said Syria was “reclaiming its rightful place among the nations” and urged renewed engagement with the U.S. and EU.
Quiet diplomacy
The visit was kept low-profile. Al-Sharaa entered the White House through a side entrance, and there was no joint press conference or photo opportunity.
A senior U.S. official told reporters that Syria would join the global coalition against ISIL as its 90th member. Washington will also allow Syria’s embassy in Washington to reopen. The official said both sides aim to boost cooperation on counterterrorism, security, and trade.
Damascus did not issue an immediate statement.
Security crackdown before visit
Hours before the meeting, Syrian media reported that authorities foiled two ISIL plots to assassinate al-Sharaa in recent months. More than 70 suspected ISIL members were arrested nationwide ahead of the visit.
The developments highlight a new phase of counterterrorism coordination between Washington and Damascus.
Sanctions relief extended
The U.S. Treasury extended sanctions relief for another six months, suspending penalties under the Caesar Act. The move eases restrictions on U.S. business dealings with Syria’s government and military.
“Lifting sanctions will help Syria rebuild its economy and fight terrorism,” the department said. It quoted Trump as pledging to give Syria “a chance at greatness.”
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The move drew mixed reactions in Congress. Permanent repeal of the Caesar Act would need congressional approval. Senator Jeanne Shaheen backed unconditional relief, while Senator Lindsey Graham called for a conditional six-month review — a step critics say could deter foreign investors.
