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Security Council representatives gave the green light to a United States-backed measure to lift sanctions on Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa prior to his presidential meeting the coming week.

Sharaa was named provisional head of state after leading an insurgent campaign that ousted Bashar al-Assad in winter 2024, ending thirteen long years of domestic strife.

America's diplomat to the UN Mike Waltz said the UN had sent "a strong political signal" that affirmed Syria's transition into "a different period" following Assad's ouster.

Previously, he faced global penalties in his role as head of the religious organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), previously associated with the extremist organization. The US removed HTS from a list of global extremist entities in July.

Further Restrictions Lifted

The UN also removed restrictions targeting Syria's Interior Minister Anas Khattab.

The Syrian diplomatic chief expressed satisfaction with the elimination of the penalties, declaring through digital channels: "Syrian officials convey thanks to the United States and to friendly nations for backing the Syrian nation and citizens."

Forthcoming Presidential Visit

Sharaa's White House visit this coming Monday occurs subsequent to President Trump remarked that Sharaa demonstrated "substantial headway" in establishing peace to the previously divided state.

The pair met on their first occasion during May, while the American president was in Saudi Arabia on a tour of the region.

Following that encounter, America's leader characterized him as a "resilient figure" possessing a "powerful background".

His former militant faction operated as the terrorist network's partner within Syria prior to breaking relations during 2016.

Previous US Visit

Monday's visit will not be the president's debut journey to the US in the current year. In September, he emerged as the pioneering Middle Eastern head of state to speak before the United Nations gathering in Manhattan after approximately sixty years.

During his address, he said Syria was "restoring its proper position across international circles" and demonstrated unity with Palestinian citizens in Gaza.

• President Sharaa addresses UN General Assembly for first time in almost 60 years
• Trump's meeting with the Syrian leader, previously unimaginable, enhances Syrian aspirations