President Donald Trump is set to host Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House in a landmark meeting aimed at advancing regional peace and rebuilding U.S.-Syria relations after years of conflict. The visit marks a significant diplomatic shift, with Syria expected to join the international coalition against ISIS and the United States preparing to ease major economic sanctions, including a suspension of the Caesar Act. Syrian officials and activists have expressed hopes that U.S. support will help reconstruct the country and foster peace with Israel, while American lawmakers and religious leaders urge protection for Syria's minorities and humanitarian access.

The meeting comes amid international debate over the wisdom of engaging with al-Sharaa, a former jihadist commander, as some warn it may undermine accountability for past abuses. Nonetheless, both U.S. and Syrian officials see the summit as a chance to counter terrorism, contain regional adversaries, and open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.