A Significant Diplomatic Shift

The meeting took place during Trump’s participation in a Gulf Cooperation Council summit, a backdrop that emphasizes the evolving dynamics in the Middle East. It comes at a time when Syria is struggling to shed the legacy of decades under the Assad regime.

After the meeting, Trump praised al-Sharaa, characterizing him as a “young, attractive guy” with a “very strong past” and a key player in the region.

Background on Al-Sharaa

Al-Sharaa, operating under the alias Abu Mohammed al-Golani, previously had connections to al-Qaida and engaged with insurgents against U.S. forces in Iraq before becoming a prominent figure in the Syrian conflict. He was detained by U.S. troops during this period.

During the meeting, Trump expressed optimism about al-Sharaa’s leadership capabilities, stating, “He’s got a real shot at holding it together.”

New Era for Syria?

Trump’s announcement of plans to lift U.S. sanctions imposed on Syria was met with public celebration in various cities across Syria. Many citizens expressed hope that this shift could facilitate the country’s reintegration into the global economy, which has been severely hindered by sanctions.

Despite this progress, the Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, voiced concerns about the implications of lifting sanctions, urging a more cautious approach.

Details of the Meeting

The closed-door meeting lasted just over 30 minutes, and included Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan joining via phone. This involvement highlights the regional stakes surrounding Syria’s future.

Trump urged al-Sharaa to take diplomatic steps towards recognizing Israel and to address the presence of foreign fighters in Syria. Discussions also entailed the responsibility of the Syrian government to manage detention facilities housing members of the Islamic State group.

The potential for U.S. military withdrawal from Syria was also hinted at during the discussion, particularly concerning the management of ISIS detention centers.

Regional Reactions and Concerns

While many leaders in the Gulf region support al-Sharaa’s administration as a bulwark against Iranian influence, skepticism persists, particularly from Israel due to al-Sharaa’s militant background. This has raised questions about the security implications for the region.

The Israeli government remains vigilant regarding any potential threats that could arise from Syria, especially given al-Sharaa’s past associations.

Public Sentiment in Syria

Following Trump’s announcement to lift sanctions, citizens took to the streets in Damascus, celebrating what they viewed as a pivotal moment for their country. The Syrian Foreign Ministry referred to it as a “turning point” and expressed confidence in the nation’s path towards stability and reconstruction.