Trump meets Syria’s president, considers normalizing diplomatic relations.

Trump Meets Syria’s President, Lifts Sanctions, and Pushes for Normalization

1. Surprise US Policy Shift on Syria

   • President Trump announced the lifting of all US sanctions on Syria, marking a major reversal in US policy.

   • He met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, signaling a potential normalization of US-Syria relations.

   • Trump urged Sharaa to establish diplomatic ties with Israel, despite Israeli concerns.

2. Controversial Background of Syria’s Leader

   • Sharaa is a former Al-Qaeda commander who led rebel forces that toppled Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

   • The US had previously placed a $10 million bounty on Sharaa but removed it in late 2024.

   • Israel and some US officials still view Sharaa as a jihadist, though he cut ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016.

3. Gulf & Turkish Support for Sanctions Relief

   • Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) praised Trump’s decision.

   • Turkish President Erdogan (joining virtually) also backed the move.

   • Both leaders reportedly encouraged Trump to ease sanctions, despite Israeli objections.

4. Challenges in Post-Assad Syria

   • Sharaa’s government has struggled to consolidate control, facing resistance from Assad loyalists.

   • In March 2025, sectarian violence erupted, with Islamist fighters killing hundreds of Alawite civilians, drawing US condemnation.

5. Trump’s Gulf Tour: Deals & Diplomacy

   • The Syria announcement came during Trump’s four-day Gulf tour, including stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.

   • Saudi Arabia pledged $600billioninUSinvestments\ast \ast ,whiletheUSsecureda\ast \ast$142 billion arms deal.

   • Qatar is expected to announce hundreds of billions in US investments during Trump’s visit.

Conclusion: A Bold but Controversial Move

Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria and engage with Sharaa represents a dramatic shift in US Middle East policy, driven by Gulf and Turkish influence rather than traditional ally Israel. While this could stabilize Syria and open economic opportunities, it risks alienating Israel and empowering a leader with a jihadist past. The move underscores Trump’s transactional diplomacy, prioritizing Gulf investments over long-standing geopolitical concerns. The long-term success of this strategy depends on whether Sharaa can maintain stability and distance Syria from extremism—or if this gamble backfires, reigniting conflict in the region.