Introduction
On Monday, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will be received at the White House by U.S. President Donald Trump, marking the first visit of a Syrian president to the White House in decades. This meeting signifies a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Syria, as al-Sharaa, once an extremist, has managed to bring his country out of isolation in less than a year.
Background on Ahmed al-Sharaa
Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former extremist, has transformed his image and position within Syria. His rise to power began when he led a coalition that ousted President Bashar al-Assad in a swift offensive on December 8, 2024. Al-Sharaa’s past includes being a jihadist in Iraq and Syria, where he was imprisoned by U.S. forces. He later became the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist group derived from Al Qaeda’s Syrian franchise.
The Significance of the Meeting
Nick Heras, an analyst from the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, states that Trump’s invitation to al-Sharaa signifies a change in U.S. policy, positioning the Syrian leader as a pragmatic and flexible figure who will help establish Syria as a strategic regional pillar under U.S. and Saudi guidance.
Expected Outcomes of the Meeting
- Joining the International Coalition Against Terrorism: During the visit, Damascus is expected to sign an agreement to join the U.S.-led international coalition against terrorism, as hinted by U.S. envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack.
- Establishment of a U.S. Military Base Near Damascus: The U.S. plans to set up a military base near Damascus, which will play a crucial role in coordinating security architecture with neighboring Israel, according to a diplomatic source in Syria.
- Economic Reconstruction Efforts: With Syria emerging from over 13 years of civil war, the country aims to secure funds for reconstruction. The estimated cost could exceed $200 billion, as per the World Bank.
United Nations Sanctions Lifted
The UN Security Council recently lifted sanctions against al-Sharaa, who previously required individual exemptions for international travel. The resolution, drafted by the U.S., praises al-Sharaa’s commitment to combating terrorism since becoming the interim president.
Regional Implications
Al-Sharaa’s newfound relationships with Western ministers, leaders, and businesspeople, as well as regional countries including wealthy Arab monarchies, have paved the way for diplomatic progress. His team has initiated negotiations with Israel, despite the two countries remaining technically at war due to the absence of a peace treaty.
U.S. Influence and Israeli Interests
Nick Heras asserts that Trump’s vision for Syria includes significant Israeli influence in a strategic part of the country over the coming years. Meanwhile, Russia, which sheltered al-Assad and his family after his downfall, maintains two military bases in Syria: the naval base in Tartus and the Hmeimim airbase on the Mediterranean coast.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Ahmed al-Sharaa? Al-Sharaa is the interim president of Syria, previously a jihadist and leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist group linked to Al Qaeda.
- Why is his visit to the White House significant? Al-Sharaa’s meeting with Trump represents a shift in U.S. policy towards Syria, positioning him as a pragmatic leader who can help establish Syria as a strategic regional pillar.
- What are the expected outcomes of the meeting? Syria is expected to join the U.S.-led coalition against terrorism, a U.S. military base may be established near Damascus, and efforts to secure funds for reconstruction will continue.
