Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa delivered a historic speech at the United Nations General Assembly becoming the first Syrian leader in nearly six decades to address the global forum.

Opening his address, al-Sharaa described Syria’s journey as one “filled with emotions, and it mixes pain with hope.” He called it a struggle “between good and evil,” stressing that the nation had endured decades of repression and hardship.

The Syrian president said he came “from Damascus, the capital of history and the cradle of civilizations,” underscoring Syria’s historic role despite years of conflict.

Repression and resilience

Reflecting on the past six decades, al-Sharaa said Syrians had suffered “injustice, deprivation and oppression.” However, he highlighted what he described as a turning point last December — a “unique Syrian achievement” that allowed the country to reclaim dignity.

According to the president, solidarity among Syrians has enabled them to resist sectarianism and attempts to divide the nation once more. He framed these struggles as part of Syria’s broader effort to preserve unity and sovereignty.

Standing with Gaza

As he concluded, al-Sharaa shifted focus to the war in Gaza, linking Syria’s past suffering to the plight of Palestinians.

“We are among the peoples most deeply aware of the horrors of war and destruction,” he said. “For this reason, we stand firmly with the people of Gaza, its children and women, and all peoples facing violations and aggression. We call for an immediate end to the war.”

He also reaffirmed that Syria’s suffering is something “we wish upon no one.”