Syria’s Transitional President Arrives in Washington After Sanctions Are Lifted

Overview

• State media report that Ahmed ash-Sharaa has begun an official visit to the United States, the first by a Syrian leader since the country gained independence in 1946.
• The UN Security Council voted to lift sanctions on the Syrian transitional president with 14 in favor, none against, and China abstaining.
• The U.S. Treasury removed ash-Sharaa from its sanctions list and also delisted Interior Minister Anas Khattab, clearing the way for high-level meetings.
• A video shared by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad ash-Shibani shows ash-Sharaa shooting baskets with CENTCOM chief Brad Cooper and coalition commander Kevin Lambert, with the time and location not specified.
• A meeting with President Donald Trump is expected during the visit, with reports indicating a possible agreement for Syria to join the anti-ISIL coalition, which has not been confirmed as signed.