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Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa criticized the international community for failing to protect civilians, release detainees, and prevent the use of chemical weapons in his country.
Speaking to CBS, Sharaa described U.S. President Donald Trump’s temporary lifting of some sanctions as “quick, courageous and historic,” emphasizing that a safe, stable, and unified Syria serves the interests of all nations.
Sharaa called on the United States to engage in broader discussions on mutual interests and to restore direct diplomatic relations. He argued that anyone opposing the lifting of sanctions would be complicit in further harming the Syrian people.
Sharaa highlighted Syria’s efforts against Daesh, the expulsion of Iranian militias and Hezbollah from Syrian territory, and the protection of civilians from chemical attacks, stating that these were tasks that should have been carried out by the international community. “The international community was unable to free a single prisoner or break the siege on a single town,” he said.
He described these actions as noble and insisted that Syria has restored hope for displaced citizens and refugees to return home safely.
Sharaa, who arrived in New York ahead of the U.N. General Assembly, also met with members of the Syrian diaspora to encourage them to convey a positive image of Syria abroad. He expressed gratitude for their efforts in serving the country.
He reiterated that foreign investment is urgently needed to rebuild Syria and that lifting additional sanctions would be key to attracting long-term aid and reconstruction funding.
Sharaa is expected to continue meetings with international leaders in New York and is open to further discussions with President Trump regarding security, economic recovery, and bilateral relations.
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