Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's diplomatic visit to the U.S., at the invitation of President Donald Trump, marked a historic milestone. Even disregarding the current state of al-Sharaa's government or the fact that the country is just emerging from civil war, the visit holds immense significance for Syrian history: He is the first Syrian leader ever to be hosted at the White House. The visit's timing, just two days after al-Shaara was removed from the U.S.' "global terrorist" list, makes it particularly noteworthy. Beyond its symbolic and historical weight, al-Sharaa's agenda was also packed with critical issues: the lifting of American sanctions, the cessation of Israeli attacks and the integration of the PKK/YPG's Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the Syrian army.
So, what tangible outcomes were there for Syria? What is the significance of U.S. relations within the new foreign policy Syria is attempting to build? What steps will the Trump administration take regarding Israeli aggression and SDF integration? Examining these questions will illuminate the path forward for the Damascus government's capacity-building and Syria's reconstruction.
Forging a new foreign policy
Syria's new foreign policy is predicated on a delicate balance.
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