In a significant diplomatic move, US President Donald Trump is set to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 14, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in US-Syria relations. This brief encounter, described as a “hello” by a White House official, comes amid discussions about lifting US sanctions on Syria and navigating complex regional dynamics. This article explores the implications of the meeting, Syria’s geopolitical context, and celebrates Syrian culture with a traditional recipe.
The Riyadh Meeting: A Diplomatic Milestone
On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, a White House official confirmed that President Trump will meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during his visit to Saudi Arabia. The meeting, though brief, is significant as it marks the first time a US president has engaged with a Syrian leader since Bill Clinton met Hafez Assad in 2000. Al-Sharaa, who led an Islamist-led coalition that toppled Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, has been advocating for the removal of US sanctions to aid Syria’s recovery. Trump has expressed openness to this, stating on Monday, “We may take them off of Syria because we want to give them a fresh start.” AP News
[](https://apnews.com/article/ahmad-alsharaa-trump-syria-bashar-al-assad-6facdef5b881286955b95e0c5b2704d7)However, the US has emphasized that Syria must address key issues, such as protecting minority rights, before sanctions can be lifted. Since Assad’s fall, deadly attacks on Alawite and Druze minorities have raised concerns, complicating diplomatic efforts.
Geopolitical Context: Israel’s Concerns and Regional Dynamics
The meeting occurs despite reservations from Israel, a key US ally, which has conducted military strikes on Syria both before and after Assad’s ouster. Israel fears that Al-Sharaa’s government may not curb threats from terrorist groups, a concern echoed by US Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf, who noted Al-Sharaa’s commitment to preventing such activities. Times of Israel The meeting, brokered by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a regional mediator.
[](https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/trump-to-say-hello-to-syrian-president-sharaa-tomorrow-white-house-official-confirms/)Historical Fact: The Umayyad Mosque of Damascus
Syria’s rich history provides a backdrop to its current political shifts. One of its most iconic landmarks, the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, built in 715 CE, is a testament to Syria’s cultural and religious significance. An intriguing historical fact: the mosque houses what is believed to be the tomb of John the Baptist, revered by both Muslims and Christians. This shared heritage highlights Syria’s historical role as a crossroads of civilizations, contrasting with its modern challenges.
Celebrating Syrian Culture: Kabsa Recipe
To connect with Syria’s vibrant culture, here’s a recipe for *Kabsa*, a traditional Syrian rice dish known for its aromatic spices and tender meat, often served at gatherings.
Syrian Kabsa Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until golden. Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides.
- Spice and Simmer: Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon stick, and salt. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Cook Rice: Remove chicken and set aside. Add rice to the pot, stir, and cook covered on low heat for 20 minutes until rice absorbs the liquid.
- Serve: Fluff rice, return chicken to the pot, and sprinkle with raisins and almonds. Serve hot with yogurt or salad.
Conclusion
The Trump-Al-Sharaa meeting in Riyadh represents a critical juncture for US-Syria relations, with implications for regional stability and Syria’s post-Assad recovery. As Syria navigates its complex transition, its rich cultural heritage, exemplified by dishes like Kabsa, offers a reminder of its enduring spirit. This diplomatic engagement, set against a backdrop of historical significance, could shape the Middle East’s future.