Syria’s Landmark UN Speech Signals Return to Global Stage After Decades

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday. This marked the first speech by a Syrian president at the UN in nearly 60 years. The event was broadcast live to crowds in Syrian cities.

Al-Sharaa declared Syria is reclaiming its place in the international community. He urgently called for Western sanctions to be lifted.

Historic Address Ends a 54-Year Absence

The last Syrian head of state to speak at the UN was Noureddine Attasi in 1967. This was shortly after the Arab-Israeli war. According to Reuters, the Assad family’s rise to power in 1970 began decades of Cold War-era isolation.

Foreign ministers typically represented Syria at the annual gathering. Al-Sharaa’s presence follows the collapse of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime in December. The new president leads a government that ousted the long-standing ruler.

Focus on Sanctions, Security, and Stability

A central theme of the speech was the crippling effect of sanctions. Al-Sharaa stated they shackle the Syrian people. He called for their complete removal to aid national recovery.

The president also addressed regional security. He criticized Israel’s continued threats against Syria. Negotiations for a security deal and Israeli withdrawal are reportedly underway.

Al-Sharaa acknowledged internal challenges. He referenced recent sectarian violence that killed hundreds. He promised justice for atrocities and highlighted efforts to dismantle the Assad-era Captagon drug trade.

The address represents a pivotal moment for Syria’s new leadership. This Syria UN speech aims to legitimize the government globally while tackling immense domestic and regional hurdles.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: Why was this Syria UN speech so significant?

It was the first time a Syrian president has spoken at the UN General Assembly since 1967. The address signals a deliberate effort by the new government to end decades of diplomatic isolation.

Q2: What did President al-Sharaa demand from Western nations?

He urgently called for the complete lifting of economic sanctions imposed on the previous regime. He argued these measures continue to harm the Syrian people during recovery.

Q3: How did Israel react to the speech?

Israel’s government confirmed negotiations are ongoing. It stated any deal must ensure Israel’s security interests, including demilitarization in southwestern Syria.

Q4: What internal issues did the president acknowledge?

Al-Sharaa addressed outbreaks of sectarian violence and atrocities against minorities. He promised investigations and justice for those responsible for the killings.

Q5: What happened to Syria’s drug trade?

The new authorities have closed industrial-scale Captagon factories. The stimulant trade was a major funding source for the Assad government, estimated at $10 billion annually.

Trusted Sources: Information in this report was gathered from Reuters and The Associated Press.