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United Nations Security Council members gave the green light to an American proposal removing restrictions on Syria's leader Ahmed al-Sharaa ahead of his White House visit next week.

Sharaa was named provisional head of state following his leadership in an insurgent campaign that ousted the former president in winter 2024, bringing to a close thirteen long years of civil war.

America's diplomat UN ambassador Mike Waltz stated the United Nations delivered "a powerful diplomatic message" that affirmed Syria's transition into "a different period" since Assad was deposed.

Previously, he faced United Nations restrictions as the leader of the religious organization the HTS movement, which was formerly linked to the terrorist network. America delisted the group from its registry of international terrorist organizations in July.

More Penalties Removed

The UN also removed penalties against the Syrian interior official Anas Khattab.

Syria's foreign minister expressed satisfaction with the elimination of the sanctions, posting on social media: "Syrian officials convey thanks toward America and allied countries for their support the Syrian nation and citizens."

Imminent Washington Talks

Sharaa's White House visit at the start of the week follows President Trump remarked that Sharaa demonstrated "substantial headway" in establishing peace to the war-torn country.

Both presidents held discussions for the first time this past May, when Trump visited Riyadh while traveling through the region.

Following that encounter, America's leader characterized the Syrian as a "strong individual" with a "very strong past".

The HTS organization he led was al-Qaeda's affiliate inside the country prior to breaking relations back in 2016.

Prior United States Journey

This week's diplomatic engagement is not Sharaa's first trip to the United States in the current year. During September, he emerged as the first Syrian leader to speak before the global assembly at UN headquarters for nearly six decades.

During his address, he stated the country had been "reclaiming its rightful place within the global community" and demonstrated unity toward Gaza's residents.

• President Sharaa speaks before global body for first time in almost 60 years
• The presidential discussion with Sharaa, unthinkable just months ago, enhances Syrian aspirations