Syria's President Ahmad al-Sharaa made a landmark address at the U.N. General Assembly, the first by a Syrian leader in nearly 60 years. He declared Syria's return to the international community following decades of dictatorship and civil strife, which resulted in significant loss of life. Al-Sharaa criticized Israel for its ongoing threats and called for negotiations to restore peace. He also urged Western nations to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, claiming they hinder the nation's recovery. His speech was celebrated by supporters in Syria but faced opposition from the diaspora in New York, highlighting the divided sentiments regarding his leadership. Al-Sharaa's rise to power followed the ousting of Bashar Assad, marking a pivotal change in Syria's political landscape.