In a landmark diplomatic move, a US delegation led by Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf met with representatives of the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) and Ahmed al-Sharaa, the Commander of the Military Operations (CMO) coalition, in Damascus on Friday. The visit marks the first direct US engagement with Syria’s new leadership since the ouster of Bashar al-Assad. The meeting focused on the challenges and opportunities facing post-conflict Syria, with the US expressing strong support for the country’s transition and reconstruction.
“A Historic Victory”
According to a statement from the CMO, the US delegation congratulated the STG on what it described as “a historic victory for the Syrian people” and reiterated Washington’s commitment to supporting the new administration.
“The American side affirmed its commitment to standing by the Syrian people as they confront major challenges, including stabilizing the northeastern region and driving economic recovery,” the statement read.
The delegation also praised the STG’s early initiatives, including forming a unified Syrian army and establishing a Ministry of Defense. They highlighted the administration’s efforts to promote inclusivity and representation for all ethnic and religious groups in Syria.
Accountability & Justice
In discussions with al-Sharaa, the American representatives emphasized the importance of accountability for war crimes committed under Assad’s regime. They commended the STG’s ongoing efforts to secure justice for victims, including the release of detainees and continued investigations into missing persons such as American journalist Austin Tice and other US citizens who disappeared during Assad’s rule. “We assured the new Syrian leadership that Washington will support the Syrian people’s quest for justice and accountability,” a US State Department official said.
Lifting Sanctions
During the meeting, al-Sharaa called on the US to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, arguing that the Syrian people should no longer suffer for the crimes of the former regime. “The Syrian people contributed to saving the region from chaos and foreign interventions by ousting the Assad regime,” al-Sharaa said, emphasizing that Syria’s neutrality in regional polarization is key to its recovery and stability. He also outlined plans for institutional reforms and development programs, stressing the need for international support to rebuild the nation.
Equal Rights
Following the meeting, Assistant Secretary Leaf described the discussions as “good, fruitful, and detailed.” She characterized al-Sharaa as a “pragmatic leader” who made moderate and forward-looking statements, particularly regarding inclusivity and equal rights.
“The new Syrian authorities have conveyed positive messages,” Leaf told reporters. “They’ve pledged to fight terrorism, ensure stability, and build a government that respects the rights of all Syrians, including women and diverse communities.”
Regional Role
The visit comes amid a growing international recognition of the STG, with France, Germany, the UK, and the EU having already initiated dialogue with Syria’s new leadership. The US delegation’s visit also signals a potential thaw in relations as Western nations explore ways to engage with the caretaker government.
Leaf pointed to improved conditions in northeastern Syria, including a ceasefire in Ayn al-Arab (Kobani) and the transition of Syrian Democratic Forces’ (SDF) roles, as a model for stabilizing other regions. “This is a rare opportunity for Syrians to rebuild their country,” Leaf said, emphasizing the US’s ongoing support for a Syrian-led political process.
A New Chapter
The US Embassy in Damascus noted in a statement that the delegation also met with Syrian civil society leaders and activists to understand their vision for the country’s future. The Americans reiterated the US’s steadfast commitment to holding Assad-era perpetrators accountable while supporting Syria’s transition to a democratic and inclusive state. The historic visit demonstrates a significant shift in US-Syria relations and reflects the international community’s cautious optimism about Syria’s future under this transitional government.
