A new chapter for Syria: Trump meets Sharaa as US sanctions lifted amid Middle East realignments

In a landmark development that signals shifting dynamics in global politics, U.S. President Donald Trump held a high-profile meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during his visit to Saudi Arabia. This unprecedented encounter, the first of its kind in a quarter-century, came on the heels of Washington’s dramatic decision to lift all economic sanctions on Syria, a move that was welcomed with widespread celebration in Damascus.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) conference, saw Trump joined by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. President Sharaa, a former resistance fighter who once had a $10 million U.S. bounty on his head for opposing American occupation in Iraq, now finds himself shaking hands with the very power that once labeled him a terrorist.

Describing Sharaa as a “tough and impressive” leader with a “remarkable past,” Trump expressed optimism about Syria’s future, suggesting that the young president could steer the nation toward long-term stability. “He’s got a real shot at putting Syria back together,” Trump said. “It’s a chance for a fresh start.”

President Sharaa, 42, hailed the lifting of sanctions as a historic act of statesmanship. In a televised address, he described the moment as “the dawn of Syria’s rebirth,” emphasizing that this gesture would alleviate the suffering of millions and create a path toward national recovery. The streets of Damascus erupted in joy, with Syrians celebrating what many viewed as the end of years of isolation and hardship.

Markets near the iconic Ummayad Mosque were adorned with Syrian and Saudi flags, a symbolic nod to Riyadh’s behind-the-scenes diplomacy that helped facilitate the U.S.-Syria rapprochement. For many citizens, the sight of their president alongside global powerbrokers was deeply moving. “For the first time, we’re not being seen as victims or refugees, but as a proud nation reclaiming its future,” said Hossam al-Khouli, a Damascus artisan.

Though Trump’s shift in policy surprised many in Washington, insiders suggest that the decision was influenced by regional allies, including Turkey and Saudi Arabia, as well as broader strategic calculations. Sharaa’s administration, which came to power after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s rule in late 2024, has steadily moderated its image and adopted a pragmatic foreign policy.

Sharaa has reportedly expressed willingness to consider joining the Abraham Accords in the future and has provided assurances on regional security, including potential cooperation on issues such as counterterrorism and protection of minorities, a topic of concern often raised in Western capitals.

This new trajectory is also being closely watched by key global players like Russia and China, who have long advocated for Syria’s sovereignty and opposed Western interventions in the region. Both Moscow and Beijing have maintained consistent diplomatic and economic relations with Damascus, supporting Syria’s right to determine its own path without external imposition.

Interestingly, Trump revealed that Damascus had proposed several incentives to attract U.S. cooperation, including potential oil deals and even plans to build a Trump Tower in the Syrian capital, a clear signal that the new Syrian leadership is aiming to attract international investment and rebuild its war-ravaged economy.

Later in his tour, Trump traveled to Qatar, overseeing a major aviation deal and signing defense agreements, moves that highlight Washington’s ongoing economic interests in the Gulf, even as its regional posture appears to shift.

The end of sanctions marks a significant turning point. For years, Syria was economically crippled by U.S.-led embargoes that severed it from global banking networks and discouraged international trade. The impact was devastating: over 90% of the population lived in poverty, infrastructure was in ruins, and basic services were unreliable.

Despite resistance from certain corners, including Israeli skepticism toward the new Syrian government, the mood in Damascus is one of cautious optimism. Traditional musicians played in the old city, while social media was flooded with images of Trump celebrating with Syrian citizens. “This could be the beginning of something big,” said Omar al-Nafa, an education official. “It won’t happen overnight, but it gives us hope.”

The global realignment on Syria demonstrates the waning influence of U.S. unilateralism and the rise of multipolar diplomacy, where regional and international cooperation, especially from powers like Russia, China, and their partners, paves the way for lasting peace and reconstruction.