Historic Moment: Syrian President Addresses the U.N. for the First Time in 60 Years

A New Era for Syria at the United Nations

Syria recently made headlines when President Ahmad Al-Sharaa spoke at the United Nations General Assembly. This was a significant event since it marked the first time a Syrian president addressed the Assembly in nearly 60 years. His speech was watched by many back home, with crowds gathering in cities to cheer while waving Syrian flags.

Al-Sharaa emphasized that Syria is rejoining the global community after decades of conflict and dictatorship, which resulted in over a million casualties and widespread suffering. “Syria is reclaiming its rightful place among the nations of the world,” he declared.

Historically, the last Syrian president to speak at the U.N. was Noureddine Attasi in 1967, shortly after a significant Arab-Israeli war. Since then, Syria’s international relations have been strained, especially since the Assad family’s rise to power in 1970. Previous leaders often sent foreign ministers to represent Syria instead of taking the stage themselves.

Al-Sharaa became president after the abrupt fall of Bashar Assad in late 2024, a pivotal moment in the ongoing civil war. His speech included a sharp critique of Israel, accusing it of perpetuating threats against Syria and undermining peace efforts. He expressed hopes for negotiations to restore the 1974 disengagement agreement and accused Israel of worsening regional tensions.

Experts notice that this speech could symbolize a new chapter for Syrian diplomacy. For example, Professor Edward Azar, a political analyst, believes this could indicate a shift away from isolation. “Syria might be looking to reintegrate with the international community,” he noted.

The Public Reaction

Back in Syria, reactions to Al-Sharaa’s speech varied. While some celebrated with parades in support of his leadership, others voiced concern over ongoing violence and human rights issues. Social media has become a battleground for differing viewpoints, with hashtags noting both support and criticism of the new administration. For many in the diaspora, these protests reveal deep divisions within the Syrian community about the country’s future.

Al-Sharaa also addressed issues of governance, promising justice for those responsible for violence during the recent upheaval. He claimed to have established fact-finding missions in an effort to investigate recent sectarian violence, which left hundreds dead.

Fighting Drug Trafficking

Another significant point in Al-Sharaa’s address was the crackdown on drugs. The Syrian government has reportedly dismantled facilities involved in producing Captagon, a powerful amphetamine that fueled both addiction and the regime’s funding. Al-Sharaa emphasized the need for international cooperation to combat this illicit trade, calling on Western countries to lift sanctions that hinder Syria’s economy.

Interestingly, a recent report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime estimates the global Captagon market to be worth around $10 billion annually. Syria’s efforts to combat this issue seem critical for its rehabilitation in the eyes of international communities.

Moving Forward

Despite the hopeful tone in his speech, the road ahead is uncertain. Al-Sharaa’s administration aims to establish stability while grappling with a long history of conflict and emerging sectarian tensions that flared recently.

As Western nations contemplate their responses, it remains to be seen whether sanctions will be lifted. President Trump’s administration has shown signs of opening dialogues, but navigating Congress’ stricter sanctions may prove challenging.

In every corner of Syria and the world, people are watching closely. The outcome of these negotiations and the country’s internal dynamics will significantly shape Syria’s future. For now, President Al-Sharaa’s speech represents both a fresh start and a complex path ahead.

For more information on Syria’s international relations and recent statistics regarding Captagon trafficking, check this UN report.

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