Syria's President Al-Sharaa unveils regional strategy, seeks Israel security deal

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has presented a strategic vision for Syria, emphasizing reconstruction, stability, and balanced relations with both regional and international powers. In a recent interview with Qatar's Al Jazeera, al-Sharaa detailed Syria's approach to managing tensions with Israel, engaging with Lebanon and Iraq, and addressing internal issues like the Kurdish minority.

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Sharaa said Syria is pursuing a foreign policy centered on reconstruction, stability, and balanced relations with regional and international powers, while reaffirming Syria’s support for Lebanese state sovereignty, a future security arrangement with Israel that preserves Syria’s rights, and continued economic opening following the lifting of US sanctions.

According to Syrian state media SANA, al-Sharaa stated that Syria is pursuing a foreign policy centered on rebuilding and maintaining balanced ties. This includes reaffirming support for Lebanese sovereignty, seeking a future security arrangement with Israel that safeguards Syrian rights, and continuing economic openness after the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Al-Sharaa noted that relations with the United States have improved following his visit to the White House and the subsequent lifting of sanctions, calling it the start of a positive new phase.

Syria aims to balance its relationships with major global powers. Al-Sharaa recently met with U.S. President Donald Trump and has engaged with Russia and European countries. He also hosted the UN head in Syria. While Russia has historically backed Syria and maintains military bases, discussions are ongoing regarding the future of these facilities. Syria intends to preserve its ties with Moscow while fostering warmer relations with the U.S.

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The president said Syria’s relations with the United States have improved following his visit to the White House and Washington’s decision to lift sanctions, describing the development as the beginning of a positive new phase in bilateral ties.

Al-Sharaa also indicated Syria's desire to remain outside the conflict in Lebanon, despite its past military presence there. The U.S. has signaled support for Syria in its efforts against Hezbollah. The president reported positive responses from European countries, Russia, and China, indicating Damascus has successfully communicated its new political vision internationally.

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Syria had also received a positive response from European countries, Russia, and China, adding that “Damascus had successfully conveyed its new political vision to the international community.”