Syrian President Al-Sharaa's UN Speech Marks Historic Shift Towards Peace and Sanctions Lift
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa made history by addressing the United Nations General Assembly for the first time in nearly six decades. His speech marked a significant shift in Syria's trajectory, moving faster towards institutional rebuilding than Iraq or France after their respective revolutions.
Al-Sharaa's transformation is remarkable. Once a young militant, he evolved into a revolutionary commander, and now stands as the unifying leader of a post-dictatorship Syria. In his speech, he signalled a willingness to pursue peace with Israel, hinting at a border deal announcement 'within days'.
Washington is reciprocating this olive branch. The Biden administration has withdrawn the $10 million bounty on al-Sharaa, while the Trump administration is moving to lift sanctions. Al-Sharaa, however, criticised outdated sanctions as collective punishment for 20 million Syrians.
Momentum is growing in Congress to repeal Caesar sanctions, led by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen in a bipartisan effort. Al-Sharaa declared Syria's transformation from a crisis exporter to a peace opportunity, pledging protection and political inclusion for minorities, and accountability for Assad-era crimes.
Al-Sharaa's UN address signals Syria's re-emergence on the global stage. With Washington's shift in stance and growing bipartisan support in Congress, the path to lifting sanctions and normalising relations with Israel appears smoother. Al-Sharaa's challenge to the international community - not to squander this moment - echoes the potential for Syria's return and regional peace.
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