New Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa Outlines Path to Arab Democracy

President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed Syria's highest office in January 2025 after Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia, sat down for an extensive interview about his vision for the country. He explained that the collapse of the al-Assad dynasty in December 2024 was driven by armed opposition under Abu Mohammed al-Julani, who then handed power to al-Sharaa. The new leader has already re-established diplomatic relations with regional and global partners and is seeking to revive the stagnant economy hampered by Western sanctions.

Al-Sharaa disclosed talks on a security agreement with Israel while ruling out any military role in Lebanon or efforts to disarm Hezbollah. He also celebrated a breakthrough in resolving long-standing tensions with Syria's Kurdish population, framing these moves as foundations for a gradual transition to a modern Arab democracy.