Syrian President al-Sharaa Visits UN General Assembly in New York First Time Since 1967

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has arrived in New York to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, marking the first visit by a Syrian president since 1967. His presence represents a significant diplomatic milestone for Syria, as al-Sharaa is the first Syrian leader to participate in the UN's High-Level Week, where world leaders address major global issues. This visit follows a major diplomatic breakthrough in May when al-Sharaa met with U.S. President Donald Trump, who subsequently lifted most U.S. sanctions on Syria and praised al-Sharaa's leadership and efforts to unify the country. Al-Sharaa's transformation from a former leader of the Jabhat al-Nusra organization, once on the U.S. wanted list, to Syria's president has raised questions but also signals a new chapter in Syrian-U.S. relations. His upcoming speech at the General Assembly is expected to outline his vision for Syria's stability and appeal for international cooperation. Al-Sharaa's foreign minister has also engaged with U.S. officials and international bodies concerning Syria's protection of minorities and broader diplomatic relations.