Syrian President heads to New York

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa departed for the United States on Sunday to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, according to a statement broadcast by Syrian state television.

Al-Sharaa, a former jihadist leader with Islamist leanings, rose to power in December 2024 following the downfall of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad. His trip to New York marks his first official visit to the U.S. since taking office.

The presidency confirmed that al-Sharaa is scheduled to deliver a speech at the General Assembly, where he is expected to outline his government’s vision for Syria’s political future and its relations with the international community.

Al-Sharaa’s presence at UNGA comes at a time when Syria remains in a fragile transition after years of conflict. His participation will be closely watched by both allies and critics, many of whom are wary of his Islamist background despite his break with jihadist factions.

The trip highlights Syria’s reemergence on the global diplomatic stage after more than a decade of isolation under Assad’s rule.