Trump Meets Syrian Leader, Urges Normalization with Israel
During a landmark visit to Saudi Arabia, President Donald Trump met with Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and encouraged him to normalize ties with Israel.
Sharaa, a former al Qaeda affiliate who rose to power after ousting Bashar al-Assad, was seen shaking hands with Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Trump called on Syria to join the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states.
“I hope you’re going to join when it’s straightened out,” Trump said, adding that Sharaa acknowledged the need for reform before such a move.
Sanctions Lifted, Rebuilding Begins
In a dramatic shift in U.S. policy, Trump announced the lifting of all sanctions on Syria. The move aims to open the door to humanitarian aid and foreign investment as the country begins recovery from years of civil war.
Saudi Arabia expressed strong support, with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan citing investment opportunities and backing for Syria’s economic revival.
Israeli Concerns Grow
Trump’s outreach to Syria and the possibility of nuclear talks with Iran have triggered unease in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which sees Iran and Syria as existential threats, remains skeptical of Sharaa’s Islamist background, despite his renunciation of al Qaeda in 2016.
Qatar Relations Restored with Major Boeing Deal
Trump’s next stop was Doha, marking the first visit to Qatar by a U.S. president in 23 years. In a show of renewed ties, Qatar Airways agreed to purchase 160 Boeing aircraft worth over $200 billion. The U.S. and Qatar also signed new defense agreements.
This visit comes after years of strained relations, during which Trump supported a regional blockade on Qatar. Now, he described the U.S.-Qatar relationship as reaching “another level,” alongside Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Saudi Commits $600 Billion Investment in U.S.
The visit also secured a $600 billion investment pledge from Saudi Arabia into the U.S. economy, along with $142 billion in arms deals. These agreements highlight Trump’s strategy of bolstering U.S. economic and diplomatic interests through closer ties with Gulf nations.
The Trump-Sharaa meeting will be followed by talks between Syria’s foreign minister and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. With sanctions lifted and diplomacy reshaping alliances, the Middle East enters a new phase of potential cooperation—and renewed tension.
For more updates on Trump’s Middle East trip, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.