Until last year, the United States offered a multi-million dollar reward for his capture.
But after forces led by al-Sharaa's Islamist rebel group HTS – previously linked to al-Qaeda – overthrew dictator Bashar al-Assad in December, he has been able to shake hands with a number of world leaders during a global charm offensive.
In July, Washington removed HTS from its list of terrorist groups, and ahead of the White House meeting, the US has also made sure to lift its terror-related sanctions against al-Sharaa.
However, Trump, who often holds press conferences with his guests, did not invite anyone to make a joint appearance before the media.
But in photos posted by the Syrian presidential office on X , the leaders are seen smiling and shaking hands in the Oval Office. According to the post, the two discussed strengthening relations between the countries and several “regional and international issues” where Washington and Damascus have common interests.
Trump says after the meeting that he wants to see a "very successful" Syria going forward and that he believes al-Sharaa can deliver.
He comes from a tough environment and he's a tough guy, says Trump.
People say he has a tough background, we all have had tough backgrounds. And I think, honestly, if you haven't had a tough background, you don't have a chance.
During his visit to Washington, al-Sharaa is expected to sign an agreement that will see Syria join the US-led coalition fighting the terrorist movement ISIS.
It is the first official visit by a Syrian president to Washington since Syria's independence in 1946.
