U.S. President Donald Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, urging him to normalize relations with Israel following a surprise U.S. decision to lift all sanctions on Syria’s Islamist-led government. After the meeting, Trump traveled to Qatar, where he presided over the signing of a major agreement for the purchase of jets from Boeing. He did not comment on a separate, controversial offer from Qatar to donate a Boeing jet to serve as Air Force One—an unprecedented gift that has stirred concern in Washington due to its ethical and security implications.
During the meeting with Sharaa, who recently rose to power leading a group previously linked to al Qaeda, Trump said the Syrian president expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords, a U.S.-brokered initiative aimed at normalizing Arab-Israeli relations. Trump relayed that Sharaa showed willingness but acknowledged that Syria still faces significant challenges before such a move can be finalized.
Saudi state media aired images of the leaders shaking hands alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Trump praised Sharaa as a capable young leader with potential.
The trip has also drawn scrutiny over Trump’s business dealings in the Gulf, as his real estate firm continues to pursue projects in the region.
The proposed Qatari donation of a $400 million aircraft, which Trump has defended as a smart gesture, has only deepened concerns over potential conflicts between his public office and private interests.
