Trump to Lift Sanctions on Syria Ahead of Historic Meeting with Al-Sharaa

Trump’s decision is seen as a pivotal foreign policy shift, allowing Syria a chance for recovery after years of devastating war.

US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to lift sanctions on Syria, coinciding with an anticipated meeting with interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa on Wednesday in Saudi Arabia. Announcing this from Riyadh, a White House spokesperson remarked that Trump would “say hello” to al-Sharaa, sparking celebrations in the Syrian capital of Damascus, where citizens welcomed the news with cheers, dancing, and celebratory gunfire.

The sanctions, which had previously prohibited foreign financial assistance to Syria, were instituted to apply pressure on former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, now toppled. Trump conveyed optimism about Syria's future during an investment forum, stating it was "their time to shine," and indicating that this policy change could offer the nation "a chance at greatness."

Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani praised the lifting of sanctions, deeming it a "pivotal turning point" for the nation, and outlined aspirations for stability and reconstruction following years of conflict. With 90% of the Syrian population now living in poverty due to the prolonged civil war, the government has been advocating for an end to sanctions since Assad's removal in December.

Al-Sharaa, who has previously professed that Syria poses no threat to the world, reiterated calls to lift sanctions in an interview just last year. He argued at a recent press conference alongside French President Emmanuel Macron that the previous regime's crimes should not perpetuate the suffering of the current government.

As al-Sharaa aims to reassure minority communities of their safety, he struggles against rising tensions manifesting in violence, particularly against Assad’s Alawite sect, where recent clashes have led to civilian deaths and stability concerns.

This major shift in US policy, influenced by requests from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, demonstrates a willingness to reintegrate Syria into the global economy. Former US Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford lauded the decision, emphasizing the necessity for international aid and investment to facilitate recovery.

As Trump continues his Middle Eastern tour, visiting Qatar and the UAE next, the implications of this policy adjustment will unfold amid ongoing regional dynamics. The removal of sanctions could pave the way for Syria to recover from years of war and suffering.