Donald Trump announced plans to normalize US-Syria relations and lift sanctions, giving Syria "a chance at peace" under its new government led by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa.

Trump's decision follows discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, aiming for rapprochement with Syria's new leadership.

The US has been cautious about recognizing Al-Sharaa's government since he took power in December, with previous President Joe Biden leaving the decision to Trump.

Al-Sharaa became Syria's president in January after a successful insurgent offensive led by his group, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, ended the 54-year Assad family rule.

Trump's announcement received a standing ovation, with him jokingly saying, "Oh, what I do for the crown prince," during the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2600583/middle-east