New York: Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa gained international praise for his speech at the UN General Assembly. However, unresolved issues at home and a controversial forthcoming election cast a shadow over the optimism on Syria’s streets.

According to Deutsche Welle, for Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, this week’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York marked a milestone in his career and in the recognition of the country. “Syria is reclaiming its rightful place among the nations of the world,” al-Sharaa said in New York. Julien Barnes-Dacey, director of the MENA programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations, remarked that al-Sharaa seems acutely aware of the need for tangible improvements and translating international momentum into solid gains, knowing that his government’s stability is tied to progress.

However, Syria’s growing international recognition contrasts with continued regional and domestic instability. In his address, al-Sharaa condemned Israel’s frequent strikes, which he claims contradict the international community’s support for Syria. While committed to dialogue, he ruled out normalizing relations with Israel soon, as US-led negotiations with Israel focus on seeking a security agreement rather than full diplomatic normalization.

Al-Sharaa also addressed the deadly sectarian violence against religious and ethnic groups, such as the Alawite, Christian, and Druze minorities, which allegedly involved governmental forces and militias. He vowed to bring those responsible to justice, forming fact-finding missions and granting the United Nations the right to investigate the killings.

Critics argue that Syria’s upcoming parliamentary elections lack genuine democratic representation. The vote has been postponed to October 5, excluding two minorities from three regions due to security concerns. Of the 140 seats initially up for election, 121 will be selected by bodies with strong ties to the president, and 19 seats remain unfilled. The remaining seats will be appointed directly by al-Sharaa, suggesting an approach that centralizes power rather than fostering inclusivity.

In his speech, al-Sharaa called for the complete lifting of sanctions, claiming Syria has transitioned from an “exporter of crisis” to a place of “opportunity.” While many sanctions were lifted earlier this year, the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act remains. Barnes-Dacey noted that sanctions relief is crucial to opening up economic inflows needed by Syria.

Despite the challenges, optimism appears to be growing among Syrians. According to the latest Arab Opinion Index from September 18, 2025, 61% of Syrians favor democratic governance. The study highlights a new sense of optimism, with 56% believing Syria is moving in the right direction, despite concerns about potential partition and external threats.

Bente Scheller of the Heinrich Böll Foundation cautioned that dwindling development funds could impede support for democratic change in Syria, warning of losing a rare opportunity to support such a transition.