Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa made history at the United Nations General Assembly, becoming the first Syrian leader in almost sixty years to speak at the world’s most important global forum. His address carried a powerful message of pain, hope, and resilience, drawing on Syria’s long struggle and linking it to the current crisis in Gaza.
In his opening remarks, President al-Sharaa described Syria’s journey as a story “filled with emotions, mixing pain with hope.” He spoke about the decades of repression, injustice, and deprivation that Syrians had endured, but also about the resilience that helped the nation survive. He said he came “from Damascus, the capital of history and the cradle of civilizations,” reminding the world of Syria’s deep cultural and historical roots despite years of war and hardship.
Looking back at the past sixty years, the Syrian president acknowledged the pain and suffering of his people. However, he pointed to what he called a major turning point last December, describing it as a “unique Syrian achievement” that restored dignity and self-belief. He praised the solidarity of Syrians, who stood against sectarianism and attempts to divide the country, framing this unity as essential for preserving national sovereignty.
Al-Sharaa also used his speech to show solidarity with Gaza, drawing a direct connection between Syria’s past struggles and the suffering of Palestinians today. He said Syrians understand the “horrors of war and destruction” more than most, which is why they firmly stand with Gaza’s children, women, and people. He called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza and stressed that the pain Syria went through is something “we wish upon no one.”
The speech was a rare and historic moment for Syria at the UN, signaling a message of resilience, unity, and empathy. By connecting Syria’s story with the tragedy in Gaza, President al-Sharaa sought to remind the world of the human cost of war and the urgent need for peace.
