Donald Trump drew criticism after calling a former terrorist warlord “a young, attractive guy” during a high-profile diplomatic encounter.
Donald Trump is under fire for praising former terrorist warlord as ‘a young, attractive guy’
During a high-stakes diplomatic tour of the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines.
He publicly praised Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s interim president and a former militant leader.
Trump praised Sharaa during a prominent Riyadh meeting. He called him “a young, attractive guy” and praised his resilience as a “fighter” with a “strong past.”
Sharaa’s history raises international eyebrows
Al-Sharaa, who rose to power after ousting Bashar al-Assad in Syria, has a controversial past marked by alleged ties to extremist groups, including al-Qaeda.
Previously detained by U.S. forces in Iraq, he had once been considered a high-value target with a multi-million-pound bounty on his head.
His sudden emergence as a central political figure has prompted mixed reactions worldwide.
While Trump appeared enthusiastic about engaging with the new Syrian leadership, his praise for Sharaa has caused alarm among key U.S. allies.
Israel, in particular, responded critically to the remarks, viewing Sharaa as a destabilizing figure with a dangerous past.
Despite these concerns, Trump seemed confident that Sharaa could transition into a legitimate political leader.
Regional diplomacy takes center stage today.
The Riyadh meeting was attended by several influential figures, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan joined the discussions via video call.
Trump called the meeting successful, highlighting productive talks on peace and regional cooperation.
In a surprising move, Trump announced his support for lifting U.S. economic sanctions on Syria, which have been in place since 2011.
He suggested that Sharaa had expressed a willingness to improve international relations and rebuild the war-torn country.
The lifting of sanctions, however, could become a divisive policy decision in Washington.
Expectations for Middle East tability
Trump urged Sharaa to deport Palestinian militants and expel foreign fighters from Syria.
Trump said these steps are needed for Syria to gain international acceptance.
He believes this could lead to potential normalization with Israel, though many see it as contentious. He also claimed he “wants to make a deal” with Iran.
Trump said: “It must stop sponsoring terror, halt its bloody proxy wars and permanently and verifiably cease its pursuit of nuclear weapons.”
Trump’s ambitions extend to Iran
In addition to his engagement with Syria, Trump reiterated his longstanding stance on Iran.
He called for the Iranian regime to abandon its support for militant groups, end regional proxy conflicts, and cease its nuclear ambitions.
Trump framed these demands as conditions for any future deal-making between Tehran and Washington.
Trump’s tour included a ceremonial visit to Qatar, greeted warmly by Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Reports say Qatar plans to offer Trump a luxurious aircraft valued at £300 million.
This gift would replace Air Force One and is linked to ongoing trade talks.
