Trump’s handshake with Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia sparks global controversy

US president Donald Trump’s recent meeting with Syrian interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia has triggered widespread backlash and diplomatic debate. The moment that drew the most attention was a handshake between Trump and al-Sharaa – a man who, just six months ago, had been declared a terrorist by the United Nations due to his alleged links to extremist activities during Syria’s civil war.

The meeting, held on Wednesday during Trump’s official visit to Riyadh, was part of a broader engagement with regional leaders. While some observers viewed the dialogue as an attempt to thaw US-Syria relations, critics saw it as a dangerous legitimisation of a figure with a highly controversial past.

Al-Sharaa, who rose to prominence following the fall of the Assad regime, has been a polarising figure. His interim leadership was initially met with skepticism, and international watchdogs had labeled him a high-risk actor with suspected ties to sanctioned militias.

During the meeting, Trump reportedly described al-Sharaa as a strong leader with potential to bring transformation to Syria. 

Karoline Leavitt, US spokesperson took to her Social media on ‘X’ stating :

“At the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. President Erdogan of Turkey joined by phone. President Erdogan praised President Trump for lifting sanctions on Syria and committed to working alongside Saudi Arabia to encourage peace and prosperity in Syria. The Crown Prince also commended President Trump for his decision to lift the sanctions, calling it courageous. Told President Al-Sharaa that he has a tremendous opportunity to do something historic in his country. President Trump encouraged President Al-Sharaa to do a great job for the Syrian people

Social media erupted with reactions, with many netizens expressing disbelief that a man once blacklisted as a terrorist was now being publicly endorsed by a sitting US president.