Syria's New Interim Leader Visits Saudi Arabia to Forge Alliances

Ahmed al-Shara, Syria's interim president recently appointed after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, embarked on his first foreign visit to Saudi Arabia. This significant trip illustrates both personal and political dimensions, particularly as al-Shara spent part of his childhood in Riyadh. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are centered around the restoration of international relations and support for lifting sanctions against Syria.

Mr. al-Shara's arrival in the Saudi capital marks a new chapter in Syria's foreign relations, steering away from the previously strong ties with Iran, which had backed the Assad regime. In recent weeks, a rapid influx of diplomats from the U.S., Europe, the Gulf, and Russia to Damascus has emphasized the urgency of establishing diplomatic ties with the new government. This diplomatic activity comes amid a changing geopolitical landscape, where the aftermath of conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon has reshaped power dynamics, particularly affecting Iran's influence in the region and altering Russia's military strategy. Additionally, Turkey's role has grown, highlighting the multilateral shifts occurring following the collapse of the Assad government.