In a move sparking global debate, President Donald Trump lifts Syria sanctions following a controversial meeting with Ahmed al-Sharaa, a figure previously linked to al-Qaeda, a designated international terrorist organization.
The meeting was held in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and was broadcast on Saudi state television, where Trump and Sharaa were seen shaking hands. The event has attracted widespread attention due to Sharaa’s extremist past and the broader implications for Trump’s Middle East policy.
Trump Encourages Syria to Normalize Ties With Israel
During the discussion, Trump urged Syria to join other Islamic nations in normalizing relations with Israel. Countries such as the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco have already done so under the Abraham Accords, a U.S.-brokered initiative to improve diplomatic ties between Israel and Arab nations.
The U.S. administration also expressed hopes that Saudi Arabia will eventually join the Abraham Accords. However, those plans were delayed following the Israel-Gaza conflict, with Saudi Arabia maintaining its stance that no normalization will occur without a pathway to Palestinian statehood.
Despite Al-Qaeda Ties, Trump Lifts Syria Sanctions
Though Ahmed al-Sharaa’s past support for al-Qaeda is well documented, Trump defended lifting Syria sanctions as a strategic diplomatic effort to engage with Syria and promote regional peace. He called the meeting a “first step” in restoring U.S.-Syria relations.
Critics, however, argue that lifting sanctions on Syria legitimizes individuals with extremist affiliations and undermines counterterrorism efforts.
Israel Opposes Sanctions Relief on Syria
The Israeli government has strongly opposed Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria, citing Sharaa’s jihadist background. Israeli officials continue to express concern over the security implications and the potential weakening of international pressure on Syria.
This latest move has intensified debate over how far the U.S. should go in its efforts to reshape alliances and diplomacy in the Middle East.