Trump to Meet Syria’s Interim Leader Ahmad al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia – Reports
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly set to meet Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia in mid-May, according to Israeli media reports on Wednesday.
Israeli news outlet i24 cited unnamed sources claiming that the meeting was arranged through direct mediation by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The potential encounter, if confirmed, could mark a significant development in Washington’s engagement with the post-Assad Syrian government.
Last week, the White House announced that Trump would travel to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries in May, but it did not confirm any scheduled meetings with Syrian officials. White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt stated, “The President will visit Saudi Arabia in May. As for specific dates and details, we will provide updates in due course.”
The potential meeting underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a mediator in Middle Eastern affairs, particularly in the wake of Syria’s political transition following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Saudi leaders have been actively engaging in regional diplomacy, seeking to reshape alliances and influence the future of Syria.
Ahmad al-Sharaa was appointed as interim president following the removal of Assad in late 2024.
While Washington has yet to officially acknowledge al-Sharaa’s administration, a meeting between Trump and the Syrian interim leader could indicate a shift in U.S. policy toward Syria. The U.S. has long opposed Assad’s rule but has remained cautious in directly supporting any single successor.
In contrast, Turkey and Iran—both influential players in Syria—have yet to recognize the new government fully. Iran, a key Assad ally, has denounced the transition, while Turkey has been pushing for its own influence in northern Syria, where it backs opposition factions.
If the meeting materializes, it could signal renewed U.S. engagement in Syria’s political future, potentially opening pathways for diplomatic negotiations on the country’s reconstruction and governance. The U.S. has previously been focused on counterterrorism operations in Syria, particularly in cooperation with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who continue to play a crucial role in maintaining security in northeastern Syria.
Regional analysts suggest that Saudi Arabia’s role in facilitating dialogue could also reflect broader efforts to stabilize the region by integrating Syria’s new leadership into the international diplomatic framework.
As of now, neither the U.S. nor Syrian interim government officials have confirmed the meeting. However, with Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia approaching, further details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.