President Ahmad al-Sharaa stated that reconstructing Syria is a top priority for the state, estimating the cost to be between $600 and $900 billion, and emphasized the need for support from the international community.

Axar.az, citing Sana News, reports that in an interview with the CBS News program “60 Minutes,” Ahmad Al-Sharaa said, “The world watched this tragedy unfold for 14 years and couldn’t do anything to stop this massive crime.”

“So, the world today should provide support to Syria,” he added.

Al-Sharaa pointed out that” international economic sanctions imposed on Syria are hindering reconstruction efforts” and have to be lifted to give people hope for rebuilding and returning to their homes.

“Anyone who obstructs the lifting of sanctions on Syria is an accomplice to those who committed this crime,” the president said.

He emphasized that Syria deserves to live in peace and security, which will serve the region and the world. “Syria deserves to live in peace and security, and the world will benefit from Syria’s new situation.”

Al-Sharaa said. “It is a great historical opportunity for the region,” he added.

The country's woes are the result of the long civil war, but also harsh economic sanctions imposed by the U.S. and other countries to punish Assad for human rights abuses. Al-Sharaa wants all sanctions lifted.

Last month, al-Sharaa spoke at the United Nations General Assembly in New York — the first Syrian leader to do so since 1967. Al-Sharaa is seeking long-term investment in Syria, and he still needs the U.S. to repeal sanctions permanently, which some lawmakers are reluctant to do.