In a significant diplomatic move, President Donald Trump is scheduled to host Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa at the White House on November 10. This meeting will be the first-ever visit by a Syrian leader to the U.S. seat of power, signaling a major shift in U.S.-Syria relations. The two leaders previously met in May in Saudi Arabia, marking the first contact between their nations' heads of state in 25 years. Al-Sharaa, formerly known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, had historic ties to al-Qaida and was once imprisoned by U.S. forces in Iraq. The upcoming meeting is expected to involve discussions on Syria’s participation in the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS. This visit comes amid Trump's broader push to stabilize the Middle East, following a fragile ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. However, tensions remain high, particularly after recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed over 100 people, challenging the delicate truce. apnews.com
The decision to host President al-Sharaa at the White House reflects a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, moving away from decades of international isolation imposed on Syria. This development could pave the way for increased cooperation between the two nations, particularly in efforts to combat ISIS and stabilize the region. The meeting is also seen as a strategic move by President Trump to strengthen alliances in the Middle East and assert U.S. influence in the region. The outcome of this meeting could have far-reaching implications for U.S.-Syria relations and the broader geopolitical landscape. apnews.com