Three Paths for the U.S. in Syria
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Syrian ruler Ahmed al-Sharaa to Paris Wednesday and called for the end of sanctions on Damascus. Mr. Sharaa, the victorious rebel leader, U.S.-designated terrorist and former al Qaeda commander, wore suit and tie, visited the Eiffel Tower and spoke constructively.
But when asked about the foreign jihadists who had flocked to his banner, Mr. Sharaa offered no plan to expel them. 'Those who stayed with us,' he said, 'would be committed to Syrian law and would not pose any threat.' He added that 'many have married Syrian women' and could become citizens once naturalization laws are in place. Some have been made commanders in the new Syrian army. You can see why sanctions relief isn't straightforward.
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