Macron hosts Syria’s new leader in first European visit

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to welcome Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria's interim leader and former Islamist rebel, on Wednesday for his first official trip to Europe, according to the Élysée Palace.

The French presidency announced that Macron will reaffirm France’s commitment to supporting the creation of a new Syria one that is free, sovereign, stable, and inclusive of all societal groups.

"This visit reflects France’s long-standing support for the Syrian people and their aspirations for peace and democracy," the statement said.

Macron plans to stress key expectations during the meeting, including efforts to stabilize Syria and neighboring Lebanon, as well as advancing the fight against terrorism.

Macron first extended an invitation to al-Sharaa in February, following the ousting of former president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist-led forces. The invitation was reiterated in March, but with a condition: the formation of an inclusive transitional government representing all sectors of Syrian civil society. Macron had previously described his dialogue with Syria’s new leadership as constructive.

The current Syrian leadership, with roots in the al-Qaeda network, has promised an inclusive political transition that respects the country’s religious and ethnic diversity. However, the international community remains cautious, especially after March sectarian violence in coastal areas left over 1,700 people dead, mainly from the Alawite community.

More recent clashes involving Druze fighters and human rights violations reported by NGOs have further raised concerns about the interim government's ability to curb extremism.

In the wake of Assad’s fall, Israel has launched numerous airstrikes across Syria, including one near the presidential palace in Damascus last Friday. Israel maintains that its actions are aimed at protecting the Druze minority and conveying a stern warning to Syria’s new rulers.

The interim authorities condemned the attack as a "serious escalation," while the United Nations called on Israel to immediately cease its military actions in Syria.