President al-Sharaa considers granting foreign fighters citizenship and calls for review of U.S. sanctions

DARAMSUQ (DAMASCUS) — Nearly 3 months after being appointed by armed factions as president, President Ahmed al-Sharaa of the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) mentioned in an interview with The New York Times that the STG is considering granting citizenship, under specific legal conditions, to foreign fighters who have lived in Syria for years. He emphasized that Syria will not serve as a launchpad for attacks against any other country. 

Al-Sharaa also urged the United States to lift sanctions on Syria, arguing that they hinder recovery and reconstruction efforts. He noted that some of the U.S. conditions for easing sanctions require broader discussions or adjustments to respect Syria’s sovereignty. 

Regarding foreign military presence, Al-Sharaa pointed out that Turkey and Russia maintain troops in Syria, stressing that any foreign military presence must operate within a legal framework and under full Syrian sovereignty. 

He expressed openness to purchasing additional weapons from Russia and other countries but clarified that no alternative offers have been received yet. Currently, all Syrian weapons are of Russian origin, and defense cooperation with Russia remains intact. Al-Sharaa described Russia as a key partner for Syria, not only militarily but also in food and energy sectors. He highlighted Russia’s role as a permanent UN Security Council member in supporting Syria’s stability on the international stage.   

On international recognition, Syria’s Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh announced that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed Ron van Rooden to lead its mission to Syria, the first such appointment in 14 years. Barnieh stated that van Rooden’s appointment came at the STG request, marking a significant step toward constructive dialogue between Syria and the IMF.