Syrian Leader's Handshake Refusal and Photo Blurring of German Minister Draw International Criticism

Ahmed al-Sharaa's refusal to shake Annalena Baerbock's hand and her image being blurred in media associated with the new Syrian regime highlight tensions over women's rights and Western values.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock's visit to Syria was marked by Ahmed al-Sharaa's refusal to shake her hand, citing conservative religious customs, while shaking hands with her French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot.
Images of Baerbock and two female interpreters were blurred in photos shared by media linked to the Islamist-led Syrian regime, raising concerns about the regime's stance on women's visibility and rights.
Baerbock used the visit to emphasize that European aid to Syria would be contingent on the protection of women's rights and the establishment of an inclusive political process.
The incident has triggered significant backlash in Germany, with critics pointing to the challenges of engaging diplomatically with a regime perceived as dismissive of Western values, particularly regarding gender equality.
The new Syrian leadership, led by the Islamist group HTS after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, faces scrutiny over its promises of inclusivity and its treatment of women and minorities in the ongoing political transition.

Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung