Historic White House Meeting
US President Donald Trump hosted Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House on Monday, marking the first visit by a Syrian leader since the country’s independence in 1946. The meeting coincided with the US Treasury Department extending sanctions relief under the Caesar Act for six more months.
Al-Sharaa, 43, who overthrew longtime leader Bashar al-Assad last December, has previously served as an al-Qaeda commander but has since rebranded Syria as a more inclusive and internationally engaged state.
The Syrian presidency stated the leaders discussed:
- Bilateral relations and ways to strengthen ties between the US and Syria
- Regional and international issues of shared interest
Trump praised al-Sharaa, noting his toughness and resilience, while acknowledging the Syrian leader’s controversial past. Al-Sharaa later clarified to Fox News that his past association with al-Qaeda was not discussed.
Sanctions Relief and Economic Opportunities
The US Treasury Department announced a 180-day suspension of punitive measures under the Caesar Act, which restricts US business dealings with the Syrian government and military.
“Removing US sanctions will support Syria’s efforts to rebuild its economy, provide prosperity for all citizens, and combat terrorism,” the Treasury said.
While the waiver is temporary, a permanent repeal would require Congressional approval. Proposals under consideration include:
- Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH): unconditional repeal
- Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC): conditional repeal reviewed every six months
Advocates warn conditional repeal could deter foreign investment, creating uncertainty for economic reconstruction.
Counterterrorism and ISIL Threats
Al-Sharaa confirmed that Syria has joined the global coalition against ISIL, becoming its 90th member. The US will also allow Syria to resume operations at its Washington embassy for improved coordination on counterterrorism, security, and economic issues.
Authorities recently foiled two ISIL assassination plots targeting al-Sharaa, while Syrian security forces arrested over 70 suspects in a nationwide campaign against ISIL cells.
Relations with Israel
Al-Sharaa met with US Congressman Brian Mast, a pro-Israel Republican, discussing Syria’s security and future stability. Despite his outreach, Israel continues military operations in southern Syria and the Golan Heights.
Al-Sharaa’s government has detained senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures, signaling a willingness to reduce tensions, and expressed interest in negotiating a security agreement with Israel to facilitate troop withdrawals.
Trump indicated ongoing cooperation with Israel on Syria, stating:
“You can expect some announcements on Syria. We want to see Syria become a country that’s very successful.”
US Strategic Objectives in Syria
Experts say the Trump administration’s approach to Syria focuses on three priorities:
- Counterterrorism cooperation to prevent ISIL resurgence
- Limiting Iranian influence in Syria
- Improving Syria-Israel relations, potentially integrating Syria into the Abraham Accords in the long term
While progress is measurable in counterterrorism, full normalization with Israel and the broader region remains a long-term goal.
Key Takeaways
- Historic White House visit: First Syrian leader to visit since 1946
- Sanctions relief: Caesar Act sanctions suspended for 180 days
- Counterterrorism: Syria joins ISIL coalition; US coordination restored
- Israel relations: Security talks ongoing; territorial disputes unresolved
- US priorities: Counterterrorism, Iranian influence, Syria-Israel engagement
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