What's happened
On November 10, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will make a historic first official visit to Washington. He aims to join the US-led coalition against ISIS, discuss lifting sanctions, and explore Syria's reconstruction. This follows his landmark UN address and a prior meeting with President Trump in May, marking Syria's shift after Assad's ouster.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Realignment in Syria
Ahmed al-Sharaa's upcoming visit to the White House marks a pivotal shift in US-Syria relations, breaking decades of isolation. This visit symbolizes the US's pragmatic approach to counterterrorism by integrating former adversaries into the global coalition against ISIS.
US Interests and Regional Stability
The US aims to establish a military base near Damascus to coordinate humanitarian aid and monitor Syria-Israel developments, signaling a strategic foothold in the Levant. The potential Syrian accession to the anti-ISIS coalition aligns with US goals to stabilize the region and prevent ISIS resurgence.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the diplomatic thaw, Syria's past as a hub for jihadist groups and ongoing territorial disputes with Israel complicate normalization. The US and Syria's negotiations with Israel over security agreements remain delicate, with Syria cautious about the Abraham Accords.
Forecast
This visit will likely unlock significant US financial aid for Syria's reconstruction, bolstering al-Sharaa's control. However, the success of Syria's integration into the anti-ISIS coalition and peace talks with Israel will depend on sustained diplomatic engagement and regional dynamics. The visit sets a precedent for engaging former insurgent leaders as state actors in conflict resolution.
What the papers say
The New Arab highlights the historic nature of al-Sharaa's visit, noting it as the first by a Syrian president to the White House and emphasizing his transformation from a former jihadist to a pragmatic leader seeking US support for reconstruction. The New York Times details al-Sharaa's background, including the removal of his terrorist designation and his efforts to join the US-led coalition against ISIS, underscoring the ongoing threat ISIS poses despite territorial losses. France 24 and The New Arab both discuss the delicate Syria-Israel negotiations, with Damascus cautious about the Abraham Accords, while The Times of Israel reports on US mediation efforts and the push for a security agreement ahead of the visit. Al Jazeera provides context on al-Sharaa's past ties to al-Qaeda and his rebranding, framing the visit within broader Middle East peace efforts following recent ceasefires in Gaza. These sources collectively portray a complex diplomatic breakthrough, balancing Syria's troubled past with emerging geopolitical realities.
How we got here
Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led Islamist rebels to overthrow Bashar al-Assad last year, has rebranded from former jihadist to statesman. The US removed his terrorist designation and bounty in 2025. Syria faces reconstruction after 14 years of civil war and seeks to normalize relations with global powers, including talks with Israel.
Go deeper
- What are the main goals of al-Sharaa's visit to Washington?
- How has al-Sharaa's past as a former jihadist influenced US-Syria relations?
- What progress has been made in Syria-Israel negotiations?
Common question
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Why Is Syria's Diplomatic Shift Important Now?
Syria's recent move to engage diplomatically with Washington marks a significant turning point in regional politics. With Syria's upcoming visit to the US and talks about joining a coalition against ISIS, many are asking: what does this mean for Syria's future and regional stability? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this historic shift and its broader implications.
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What Does Syria's First Official Visit to Washington Mean for Middle East Peace?
Syria's upcoming official visit to Washington marks a significant shift in Middle East diplomacy. After years of isolation and conflict, Syria is now engaging directly with the US, aiming to join the coalition against ISIS, discuss sanctions, and rebuild its international standing. This move raises many questions about regional stability, future peace prospects, and Syria's role on the global stage. Below, we explore the key implications of this historic visit and what it could mean for the future of the Middle East.
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Why Is Syria’s Leader Visiting the White House Now?
Syria's historic visit to Washington marks a significant shift in Middle East diplomacy. After years of isolation, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's upcoming trip to the White House raises questions about the future of US-Syria relations, sanctions, and regional stability. What does this visit mean for Syria's international standing and its efforts to rebuild after years of civil war? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this groundbreaking diplomatic move.
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