Syria’s New President Ahmed Al-Sharaa Debuts at U.N. General Assembly Amid Uncertainty Over His Past and Vision

Former al Qaeda member Ahmed al-Sharaa, now Syria’s leader, is making a high-profile debut at the U.N. General Assembly to present his vision for a new Syria. His government faces challenges including sectarian violence, international skepticism, and the need for reconstruction and sanctions relief.

Al-Sharaa, who led the Islamist rebel group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham to victory over Assad, has taken on a Western-style image to appeal for international recognition and aid. Despite his controversial past, he has publicly promised an inclusive government that would represent all religious and ethnic factions in Syria, uphold women’s rights, and protect minority rights.

At the U.N. General Assembly, al-Sharaa is expected to emphasize the need for international support, particularly the lifting of sanctions and aid for reconstruction. The cost of rebuilding Syria is estimated at between $250 and $400 billion, with over 16 million people in dire need of humanitarian assistance. His administration’s ability to secure such aid will be crucial to Syria’s recovery.

While some, including former U.S. Ambassador Robert Ford, have expressed cautious optimism, others remain skeptical about al-Sharaa’s democratic intentions. Ford noted that al-Sharaa’s rule in Idlib was authoritarian, and he has placed loyalists in key government functions. The challenge for al-Sharaa’s government will be to balance his Islamic roots with the need to integrate diverse groups within Syria.

In addition to his domestic challenges, al-Sharaa’s government must navigate complex international relationships, including potential security pacts with neighboring countries like Israel and the ongoing tensions with Islamic extremists. The recent suicide bombing at a Greek Orthodox church in Syria has drawn attention to the growing risks faced by Syria’s minority communities.

As al-Sharaa makes his case at the U.N., the international community will be watching closely. His administration’s success in rebuilding Syria and ensuring stability will depend not only on his leadership but also on the support and engagement of global allies and the people of Syria itself.