Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has expressed a promising willingness to normalize relations with Israel and potentially join the Abraham Accords, provided specific conditions are met, according to Republican Congressman Marlin Stutzman. Following a historic visit to Damascus last week, Stutzman shared details of his discussions with al-Sharaa in an exclusive interview with The Jerusalem Post. Accompanied by fellow Congressman Cory Mills, Stutzman marked the first visit by US lawmakers to Syria since the collapse of the Assad regime.
Stutzman revealed that al-Sharaa's foremost condition for peace is preserving Syria's unity and sovereignty amid fears of territorial division. Additionally, al-Sharaa demands direct negotiations with Israel, calling for an end to Israeli military actions near the Golan Heights and bombings within Syrian borders. "I truly believe he is open to dialogue," Stutzman told The Jerusalem Post, emphasizing al-Sharaa's apparent readiness for constructive talks.
During their visit, the members of Congress engaged with Syrian officials and inspected sites tied to past regime atrocities. Despite al-Sharaa's controversial history with al-Qaeda, Stutzman noted a seeming transformation, with the Syrian leader focusing on trade, commerce, and reconstruction. Al-Sharaa reportedly seeks the removal of US sanctions, not financial aid, to facilitate rebuilding efforts. "He's not asking the US for money, just for sanctions to be removed," Stutzman clarified.
However, lifting sanctions hinges on Syria meeting stringent US criteria, including upholding human rights, ensuring religious freedom, preventing the country from becoming a terror hub or proxy for Iran, China, or Russia, and fostering a secure relationship with Israel. While Israeli officials remain cautious, Stutzman warned that failing to engage could drive Syria toward adversarial powers. He believes that US President Donald Trump will shape policy. Still, he urged al-Sharaa to seize this potential shift in US foreign policy for prosperity—or face consequences for missteps.