Syrian President Ahmed Sharaa used his address at the UN General Assembly in New York to thank Türkiye and international partners, while calling for the complete removal of sanctions. The appearance ended nearly sixty years of diplomatic isolation, as Sharaa framed Syria’s future around reconstruction, refugee returns, and renewed regional integration.

Türkiye and Global Support

Sharaa praised Türkiye, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Arab and Islamic countries, the United States, and the European Union for supporting Syrians, saying their backing enabled humanitarian aid and the possibility of return. His acknowledgement reflects Syria’s efforts to restore ties and expand its diplomatic outreach after decades of isolation.

Breaking Six Decades of Isolation

The UN speech was historic—the first by a Syrian leader at the assembly since 1967. Crowds in Damascus watched the address live, celebrating the country’s return to the international stage. Sharaa declared, “Syria resumes its rightful place among the nations of the world,” positioning the transition government as the legitimate face of the post-Assad era.

Sanctions and Economic Challenges

Sharaa insisted that sanctions function as collective punishment and must be lifted entirely. Despite partial easing in 2024–2025, restrictions still obstruct access to banking and reconstruction finance. Regional airlines have cautiously resumed flights to Damascus, while investors remain wary amid lingering legal and security risks. The push to rejoin international trade is central to Sharaa’s recovery agenda.

Refugees, Past Crimes, and Accountability

He condemned atrocities under the Assad regime, including barrel bombs, chemical attacks, and torture, while noting that over 14 million Syrians were displaced. He invited exiles to return, declaring Syria no longer an exporter of crisis. Humanitarian groups caution, however, that conditions for safe and voluntary returns are not yet guaranteed, with millions still displaced both inside Syria and abroad.

Regional Security and the 1974 Framework

Sharaa reaffirmed Syria’s adherence to the 1974 disengagement line with Israel, warning that renewed threats could spark instability. He also voiced solidarity with Palestinians, stressing the need for diplomacy over confrontation. His message sought to balance Syria’s reintegration with commitments to regional security and sovereignty.