Syria's ex-terrorist leader earns approval of Trump

President calls former al-Qaeda commander ‘amazing’ after historic meeting where he lifts sanctions on war-torn nation

- ALASTAIR JAMIESON

Donald Trump shook hands with Syria’s Islamist ruler yesterday – the first encounter between the two nations’ leaders in 25 years and a potential turning point for Damascus as it struggles to emerge from decades of international isolation.

The US president warmly greeted former al-Qaeda fighter Ahmed al-Sharaa in a historic meeting unthinkable only a few months ago.

Under the nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, Mr Sharaa rose through the ranks of al-Qaeda and fought US forces in Iraq before entering the Syrian war. He was even imprisoned by US troops for several years.

He became Syria’s interim president in January after insurgent groups led by his Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) stormed Damascus and deposed the Assad family after 54 years in power.

“He’s got a real shot at holding it together,” said Mr Trump, who lifted all US sanctions on Syria – an announcement that led to celebrations in Damascus and other cities across Syria. He also encouraged Mr Sharaa to join Morocco and the UAE in normalising ties with Israel.