Saudi Crown Prince’s gesture of thanks goes viral in Syria, becomes symbol of new hope

Dubai: A simple yet powerful gesture by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has gone viral across Syrian social media, becoming an unexpected symbol of hope and gratitude following a major US policy shift.

The moment, captured on camera during the recent Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, shows Prince Mohammed placing both hands on his chest — a traditional gesture of respect and appreciation — as he thanked US President Donald Trump for lifting American sanctions on Syria.

The image struck a chord among Syrians, rapidly spreading across platforms as celebrities, activists, and everyday citizens imitated the gesture in a wave of photos and videos.

“It’s not just a movement; it’s a message,” said a Syrian social media influencer. “It tells the world that there is hope and solidarity —that Saudi Arabia stands with Syria during a moment of change.”

Artists and cartoonists joined in, sharing digital illustrations and caricatures inspired by the Crown Prince’s gesture, amplifying its symbolic weight.

Syrian commentators hailed the moment as a “historic signal” of warming ties between Riyadh and Damascus — one that resonated more deeply than any formal diplomatic statement.

Many credited behind-the-scenes talks between Prince Mohammed and President Trump as instrumental in influencing the White House’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria.

As the news broke, scenes of celebration emerged from across Syria. Videos showed jubilant crowds waving Saudi flags and expressing gratitude, calling the move “a long-awaited turning point.”

In a particularly striking tribute, a couple in Syria’s Homs province reportedly named their newborn Trump Ahmed Al Sattouf in honor of the U.S. president.

-- Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE