Story perspectives

Trump Praises Syria's Al-Sharaa Amid Kurdish Offensive

1/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction after a call with Ahmed al-Sharaa.
He praised al-Sharaa's stabilization efforts amid the Syrian army offensive against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The United States is transferring ISIS detainees to Iraq to ensure a smooth process.
Senator Lindsey Graham proposed sanctions against Syria for its actions against the Kurds.
Al-Sharaa is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss bilateral relations.

History

Historical Context

The Syrian Civil War, ignited by protests against President Bashar al-Assad in March 2011, has evolved into a complex conflict involving multiple factions and foreign powers. By 2019, U.S. support for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) shifted as Turkey launched an offensive, prompting the SDF to negotiate with the Assad regime for protection, highlighting the war's intricate geopolitical dynamics.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction after a call with Ahmed al-Sharaa.
He praised al-Sharaa's stabilization efforts amid the Syrian army offensive against the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The United States is transferring ISIS detainees to Iraq to ensure a smooth process.
Senator Lindsey Graham proposed sanctions against Syria for its actions against the Kurds.
Al-Sharaa is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss bilateral relations.

1 / 2