After 60 years, a Syrian president addresses the United Nations

Syria's new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, addressed the United Nations General Assembly, marking the first time a Syrian leader has done so in 60 years. Formerly a designated terrorist known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, Sharaa called for the lifting of economic sanctions and an end to Israeli violations of Syrian sovereignty. He declared that Syria has transformed into an "opportunity for peace" and promised to pursue justice for victims of the previous Assad regime. Sharaa also vowed to uproot sectarianism and grant access to UN fact-finding missions. The address comes amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, which Israel claims are targeting militia weapon depots.