Historic White House Meeting Signals New Chapter in U.S.-Syria Relations

In a groundbreaking development, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on November 10, 2025, marking the first official visit by a Syrian head of state to the United States since Syria's independence in 1946.

This unprecedented meeting signifies a substantial shift in U.S.-Syria relations, with Syria announcing its intention to join the U.S.-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS as its 90th member. However, Syrian Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa clarified that while Syria is now part of the political coalition, it will not participate in the military operations of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Background on Ahmad al-Sharaa

Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Julani, has a complex history, including affiliations with al-Qaeda and leadership of the jihadist group Jabhat al-Nusra, which later became Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Under his leadership, HTS played a pivotal role in the military operation that ousted Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. Since assuming the presidency in January 2025, al-Sharaa has undertaken efforts to rebrand himself and Syria's leadership, promoting religious tolerance and seeking international cooperation.

Syria's Inclusion in the Global Coalition Against ISIS

During the White House meeting, Syria announced its intention to join the U.S.-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, becoming the coalition's 90th member. Syrian Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa clarified that while Syria is now part of the political coalition, it will not participate in the military operations of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Discussions on Sanctions and Reconstruction

A significant topic of discussion was the lifting of U.S. sanctions imposed under the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019, which targeted human rights abuses by Assad's regime. While President Trump had previously lifted executive sanctions on Syria, the Caesar Act remains in place and requires congressional action for permanent repeal. Al-Sharaa advocated for a full lifting of these sanctions to facilitate Syria's reconstruction and economic development.

Diplomatic and Economic Implications

The meeting also touched upon potential U.S. investments in Syria, particularly in the gas sector, and the reopening of Syria's embassy in Washington to enhance cooperation on counterterrorism and economic initiatives. Additionally, discussions included the integration of Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into the Syrian military and potential security agreements with Israel.

International Reactions and Future Prospects

The United Nations Security Council recently lifted sanctions on President al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, following a U.S.-drafted resolution that passed with 14 votes in favor and China's abstention. This move aligns with President Trump's broader intent to give Syria a renewed opportunity after years of civil conflict.

President Trump's commitment to supporting Syria's reconstruction and his confidence in al-Sharaa's leadership indicate a potential new chapter in U.S.-Syria relations. However, concerns remain regarding Syria's governance, given al-Sharaa's past affiliations and the need for transparency and accountability in his administration.

The historic meeting between Presidents Trump and al-Sharaa marks a significant turning point in U.S.-Syria relations, with potential implications for regional stability and the global fight against terrorism. While the path forward presents opportunities for cooperation and reconstruction, it also necessitates careful navigation of the complexities surrounding Syria's leadership and its commitment to international norms.