Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa Addresses UN for First Time Since 1967

 
For the first time in nearly six decades, a Syrian president addressed the United Nations General Assembly, signalling a dramatic shift in Syria’s political landscape. President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who rose to power after the fall of the Assad regime in December, declared Syria’s return to the international community and promised justice, reform, and reconciliation.
 
 
Al-Sharaa told world leaders that Syria was reclaiming its place among nations after decades of dictatorship, which he said were marked by mass killings and torture. His appearance marked the first by a Syrian head of state at the UN since 1967. He criticised Israel’s continued threats and military actions, warning they could escalate regional instability. They also emphasised progress in dismantling Syria’s illicit drug trade. He urged the United States and allies to lift economic sanctions, saying they are like a punishment to ordinary Syrians.