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United Nations Security Council members approved to a US resolution removing restrictions on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa before his Washington trip next week.

He became transitional president after leading a rebel offensive that drove out the previous leader in December 2024, concluding over a decade of internal conflict.

America's diplomat Mike Waltz at the United Nations said the UN had sent "a strong political signal" that affirmed Syria's transition into "a different period" since Assad was deposed.

Previously, he faced global penalties in his role as head of the Muslim faction the HTS movement, once connected to the extremist organization. Washington eliminated the group from its registry of global extremist entities this past July.

Additional Sanctions Relief

Furthermore, global sanctions were ended on penalties against the Syrian interior official Minister Anas Khattab.

The Syrian diplomatic chief welcomed the removal of the sanctions, posting on social media: "Syrian officials convey thanks to the United States and to friendly nations for backing the country and its population."

Upcoming White House Meeting

The Syrian leader's Washington trip this coming Monday occurs subsequent to US President Donald Trump said the Syrian leader had made "good progress" working toward stability to the war-torn country.

Both presidents held discussions initially during May, while the American president was in Saudi Arabia while traveling through the region.

Following that encounter, the US president described Sharaa as a "tough guy" possessing a "powerful background".

The HTS organization he led was al-Qaeda's affiliate in Syria until he severed ties in 2016.

Prior United States Journey

The upcoming meeting does not represent his initial visit to the US in the current year. During September, he made history as the pioneering Middle Eastern head of state to address the United Nations gathering at UN headquarters in almost 60 years.

During his address, he said Syria was "regaining its deserved status within the global community" and demonstrated unity with the people of Gaza.

• Syrian leader presents to international community for first time following approximately sixty years
• The presidential discussion with the Syrian leader, once considered impossible, boosts Syrians' hopes