In Saudi Arabia, President Donald Trump’s decision to meet with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa marks a significant shift in US foreign policy. Despite concerns within his administration regarding al-Sharaa’s past ties to Al Qaeda, Trump announced the lifting of sanctions on Syria during a speech in Riyadh. This move comes after discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who encouraged Trump to engage with al-Sharaa.
Al-Sharaa assumed the presidency of Syria following an insurgent-led offensive that toppled the Assad family’s 54-year rule. Trump’s decision to engage with al-Sharaa reflects a strategic effort to support the new Syrian government in stabilizing the country and promoting peace. Additionally, Trump’s call for Iran to pursue a new path and his desire to avoid conflict underscore his broader diplomatic objectives in the region.
The meeting in Saudi Arabia also highlighted the signing of a historic $142 billion arms deal between the United States and Saudi Arabia, showcasing the transactional nature of Trump’s foreign policy approach. As Trump continues his Gulf tour with planned stops in Qatar and attendance at the Gulf Cooperation Council meeting, the lifting of sanctions on Syria and the engagement with al-Sharaa signal a significant development in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
