Overview

• Ahmed al-Scharaa, Syria's interim president and leader of HTS, meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris for his first European visit.
• France seeks commitments from al-Scharaa on minority protections, counterterrorism, and regional stabilization, particularly in Lebanon.
• Al-Scharaa faces scrutiny over past ties to extremist groups and growing pressure to protect Syria's religious minorities, including Druze, Christians, and Alawites.
• Recent sectarian violence in Syria has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with over 100 Druze killed in clashes and hundreds of Alawites affected by military operations against Assad loyalists.
• France emphasizes its historical ties to Syria and reaffirms support for a free, stable, and sovereign Syrian state under inclusive governance.