Syrian President Addresses U.N.General Assembly, Marking Historic First in Nearly 60 Years
NEW YORK – Syria‘s President Bashar al-Sharaa addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Monday, September 23, 2025, becoming the first Syrian leader to speak before the body in nearly six decades.The appearance, occurring during the 80th Session of UNGA themed “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights,” took place amidst heightened tensions and protests both inside and outside U.N. headquarters in New York City.
Al-Sharaa’s address marks a notable moment for Syria, which has been largely isolated on the international stage for decades, especially during and following its prolonged civil war. His presence at the UNGA signals a potential shift in global engagement with the syrian government, though deep divisions remain regarding its human rights record and ongoing political landscape. The speech comes as Syria attempts to rebuild and navigate a complex web of regional and international relationships.
The event was met with a vocal and divided demonstration outside the U.N. building. Pro-government supporters waved the three-starred “revolution flag” now representing syria,while counter-protesters displayed the five-color Druze flag. Clashes erupted as demonstrators on both sides exchanged shouts and accusations across barricades.
Farah Taki, a Syrian American originally from Sweida, traveled from Chicago to protest al-Sharaa’s visit. “It’s a disgrace that New York is welcoming an ex-qaida member at the U.N., and allowing him even to speak,” she stated, referencing al-Sharaa’s past affiliation with an insurgent group that once had ties to al-Qaida.
Conversely, dina Keenawari, a Syrian American from Damascus residing in Florida, voiced her support for the president. “We’ve lived under tyranny for the past 50 years, and now we’re turning a new chapter and we’re looking forward,” Keenawari said. “And we’re proud of him.”
The protests underscore the deep fractures within the Syrian diaspora and the ongoing political sensitivities surrounding al-Sharaa’s leadership and the country’s future. The UNGA address and the surrounding demonstrations represent a pivotal moment for Syria as it seeks to re-establish its role in the international community.
