Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's Historic Visit to the White House
In a significant departure from past tensions, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump on November 10, marking the first visit of a Syrian head of state to Washington since the country's independence in 194612.
A Controversial Leader's Rise to Power
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the former leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)34, rose to power following the fall of the long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad late last year56. This visit represents a significant step in Syria's turbulent history, with al-Sharaa having once been arrested for joining Al Qaeda against American forces7.
Removal from Terrorism Blacklist and Lifting of Sanctions
The high-profile meeting comes just days after the United Nations Security Council's decision to lift sanctions on al-Sharaa, a move that was also followed by the UK38. This lifting of sanctions is seen as a crucial step towards the stabilization and economic recovery of Syria9. The U.S. Security Council's resolution also removed sanctions on Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab3.
The Agenda for the Meeting
The meeting is anticipated to focus on several key issues, including the full lifting of remaining sanctions imposed during the 13-year civil war6. The U.S also has a rare opportunity to safeguard Syria’s endangered religious minorities10, and the meeting will likely address the rising tensions in Syria’s northeast5. In addition, there are expectations that the U.S. will push for a pact between Syria and Israel11.
A Pivot for the U.S.
The visit signifies a dramatic shift in relations, with the former jihadist al-Sharaa now positioned as a 'pivot' for the U.S12. Notably, Sharaa was filmed playing basketball with U.S. commanders, symbolizing the significant change in relationships13.
Implications and Reactions
The visit, however, has not been without controversy. Some remember Sharaa's violence towards minorities7, and there are concerns about the potential for sectarian violence and religious cleansing
in the absence of a federated system of governance to protect vulnerable communities10.
The visit also comes amidst increasing military activity in Syria's northeast5 and pre-emptive strikes against the Islamic State14.
Conclusion
Al-Sharaa's visit to the White House marks a turning point in U.S.-Syria relations. It represents a significant political shift and offers the potential for future cooperation, but it also raises questions about the protection of religious minorities and the establishment of a stable governance system in Syria.