Syria’s New Leader Meets Saudi Crown Prince in First Foreign Visit

Ahmed al-Sharaa’s trip signals Syria’s shift from Iran to Gulf alliances as it seeks support for reconstruction and sanctions relief.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s interim president, traveled to Riyadh for his first official trip since taking office after ousting Bashar al-Assad in December.
The visit underscores a significant realignment in Syria’s foreign policy, moving away from Iran and toward Gulf nations, particularly Saudi Arabia.
Al-Sharaa held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discussing cooperation in economic, humanitarian, and reconstruction efforts for war-torn Syria.
Saudi Arabia is advocating for the lifting of international sanctions on Syria and has expressed interest in supporting its rebuilding and reintegration into the global economy.
Syria’s new leadership, despite concerns over al-Sharaa’s past Islamist affiliations, is working to gain regional and international legitimacy while emphasizing inclusivity and distancing itself from Iran and Russia.