During a recent meeting in Saudi Arabia, President Donald Trump encouraged Syrian President Ahmed Alshara to join the Abraham Accord. This comes after Trump lifted all sanctions imposed on Syria, a significant policy shift in U.S. foreign relations that coincides with celebrations in Damascus, where many view it as a step towards economic recovery. Sanctions had been in place for over a decade and deeply affected Syria’s economy.
This request followed a speech given by Trump to Saudi leaders, where he also urged the kingdom to formally recognize Israel and participate in the Abraham Accord, describing such an endorsement as a personal honor.
The Abraham Accord initially included Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, with Sudan and Morocco later joining.
At the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meeting in Riyadh, Trump and Alshara discussed Syria’s acknowledgment of Israel, which is part of the conditions for the new relations between the two countries. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also participated in the discussions.
According to White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, Trump advised Alshara to combat Palestinian terrorists and collaborate with the U.S. to prevent the resurgence of ISIS.
This was the first encounter between U.S. and Syrian leaders in a quarter century. Trump expressed optimism about this meeting, suggesting it could offer Syria a valuable opportunity for progress.
“We are currently pursuing normalization with the new Syrian government,” Trump stated.
Contrary to this, reports have indicated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously cautioned Trump against lifting sanctions, citing risks that could lead to increased hostilities from Syria.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry referred to the Trump meeting as “historic,” although it didn’t specifically comment on the Abraham Accord. Yet, Trump insisted that Alshara showed support for the idea.
“I hope you will participate,” Trump relayed to reporters regarding the Accord, noting that Alshara acknowledged the need for significant changes.
Alshara has a complex background, having previously fought against U.S. forces, and eventually become involved with terrorist groups. He now claims he aims to alter his approach.
Critics of Trump suggest that engaging with former extremists is a flawed strategy, and if Syria agrees to recognize Israel, it would mark a remarkable shift for Western leaders.
