In a groundbreaking diplomatic twist, US President Donald Trump has urged the new Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, to establish formal ties with Israel during his recent visit to Riyadh. This meeting marks the first encounter between a US president and a Syrian leader in 25 years, coming on the heels of Trump's announcement to lift major sanctions on the war-torn nation.

With al-Sharaa, a former militant who once led the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Trump emphasized the importance of Syria joining the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations. In a symbolic gesture, the two leaders, both clad in matching suits, shook hands in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a vital ally of al-Sharaa's new government.

While Saudi Arabia and Türkiye have advocated for restoring relations with Syria, Trump's appeal to al-Sharaa puts him at odds with Israel, especially given the latter’s recent military actions aimed at undermining Syria’s military capabilities.

During the meeting, Trump did not shy away from spotlighting additional US demands: he requested Syria deport Palestinian militants and control camps housing captured Islamic State fighters, currently overseen by Kurdish forces that Türkiye opposes.

Praise flowed from Trump as he described al-Sharaa as a "young, attractive guy" and a "fighter with a strong past," signaling a surprising personal rapport. Meanwhile, the Syrian foreign ministry deemed the meeting "historic" but notably avoided any mention of the Abraham Accords.

After the discussions, Trump reflected on how the previous sanctions had crippled the Syrian economy, stating that lifting them would provide a healing opportunity. His announcement during an investment forum in Riyadh elicited enthusiastic applause from the audience, underscoring its significance.

Celebrations erupted across Syria following the news as citizens expressed optimism about the potential economic revival. Zain al-Jabali, a soap factory owner in Aleppo, highlighted how the lifted sanctions could stimulate industry and invite returnees.

However, while Trump made strides in dialogue, he provided no assurances about removing Syria from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, a designation complicating investment ventures since 1979 due to Syria's past support for militant groups.

Experts believe that easing sanctions will enable Syria's reintegration into the global economy, paving the way for much-needed investment and reconstruction efforts. Rabha Seif Allam posited that such moves would greatly assist Syria in rebuilding its economy and restoring governmental authority.

As Trump continued on to Qatar, controversy brewed over Qatar's proposed luxury aircraft for the US president, drawing further attention to his ambitious diplomatic maneuvers in the Middle East.