Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa returned from his first US trip to the United Nations General Assembly and chose Idlib as the stage for his first address, declaring that Syria had “reclaimed its historical place among nations” and urging national unity.
A Speech from Idlib
Speaking at the Loyalty to Idlib fundraising campaign on Friday evening, September 26, Sharaa told supporters he intentionally chose Idlib as the location of his remarks to underscore its symbolic role. “Idlib was the mother to whom her sons were loyal and turned into a miniature Syria,” he said.
The president praised Syrians for their sacrifices during the war, telling them, “With all of you, Syria has held its head high among nations and regained its dignity and pride. You astonished the world.”
Rebuilding and International Support
Sharaa reflected on his meetings at the UN General Assembly, noting that he witnessed strong international commitment to Syria’s territorial integrity. “I have seen the unanimous insistence of countries on the unity and stability of Syria and the rejection of calls for partition,” he said.
He emphasized that sanctions relief should serve as a means to strengthen the economy, attract investment, and generate jobs. “The lifting of sanctions is not an end in itself, but a means to serve the people,” Sharaa stated.
Call for National Effort
The president urged Syrians to seize what he described as a historic opportunity. “Today we are required to work, toil, and be patient. Our strength lies in our unity, and unity is mercy while division is torment,” he said.
In closing, Sharaa framed the campaign as both practical and symbolic: “Today is the day of loyalty to our mother, to Idlib al-Izz. I call on you to rebuild it, enable the displaced to return, and demolish the last tent.”
