Syria Thwarts Two Islamic State Plots to Assassinate President Sharaa Ahead of Trump Meeting

Syrian security forces have foiled two separate Islamic State plots to assassinate President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The attempts were uncovered in recent months. This comes just days before a historic White House meeting with US President Donald Trump.

The news was confirmed by a senior Syrian security official. A senior Middle Eastern diplomat also verified the threat. This highlights the severe personal risks facing the Syrian leader as he pivots toward Western alliances.

New Chapter for Syria Amidst Security Threats

President Sharaa took power last December. His Islamist rebel movement ousted longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad. Since then, he has worked to stabilize a nation shattered by 14 years of civil war.

His upcoming meeting with Trump marks a sharp foreign policy shift. It moves Syria away from its traditional alliances with Russia and Iran. According to Reuters, Sharaa seeks US support for postwar reconstruction and international recognition for his government.

Long Fight Against a Resurgent Islamic State

The Syrian administration has intensified its campaign against Islamic State. The extremist group has attempted a resurgence amid the country’s ongoing instability. Just last weekend, security forces detained over 70 suspected IS members in nationwide raids.

A senior Syrian security official stated the crackdown was based on solid intelligence. The intelligence indicated fresh plots against government institutions and minority communities. The official said Syria’s intelligence network would be a major asset for any international coalition.

Before becoming president, Sharaa led a hardline Islamist faction. He later severed ties with al-Qaeda and fought brutal campaigns against IS militants. Islamic State now portrays his outreach to the West as a betrayal of Islam.

Strengthening Ties with Washington

Syrian officials confirm quiet coordination with US military planners has occurred for months. The cooperation has targeted IS remnants in the region. Formal entry into the US-led coalition is expected to deepen this intelligence sharing.

Sharaa’s outreach is also a strategic bid for economic relief. He aims to persuade US lawmakers to lift remaining sanctions on Damascus. A successful White House meeting could be a pivotal step toward that goal.

The foiled assassination plots underscore the high stakes of Syria’s geopolitical realignment. President Sharaa’s security remains a paramount concern as he navigates this new path. His government’s ability to counter these threats will be critical for the nation’s future stability.

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What was the nature of the assassination plots?

The plots targeted President Sharaa during a public appearance. Syrian officials have not released specific details due to security concerns. The plans were discovered and neutralized over the past few months.

Why is the meeting with President Trump significant?

It is the first visit by a Syrian head of state to the White House. The meeting is expected to finalize Syria’s entry into the global anti-IS coalition. It represents a major shift in Syria’s foreign policy toward the West.

How has Syria responded to the increased IS threat?

Syrian security forces recently detained more than 70 suspected IS members. The raids occurred across multiple provinces. The government says its intelligence network has deeply infiltrated the group.

What does Syria hope to gain from aligning with the US?

Syria seeks support for its massive postwar reconstruction efforts. The government also wants international recognition and the lifting of US sanctions. Closer military cooperation against IS is another key objective.

How has Islamic State reacted to Syria’s political changes?

The group views Sharaa’s outreach to the West as a betrayal. It has attempted to exploit the political landscape since Assad’s fall. A church bombing in Damascus in June was blamed on the group.