Trump Formally Orders Lifting of Sanctions on Syria
The order, which takes effect Tuesday, aims to reintegrate Syria into the global financial system and encourage foreign investment after more than a decade of civil war and economic collapse.
Why the Sanctions Were Lifted
Trump first announced his intention to ease sanctions during his visit to Riyadh last month. Now, that promise has turned into formal action, though full reversal of all legal restrictions still needs approval from Congress—particularly the 2019 Caesar Act, which penalizes international business with Syria.
According to U.S. Treasury officials, this decision reflects a shift in Washington's stance following positive changes under Syria's new leadership.
'The significance of this moment cannot be overstated,' said Brad Smith, acting undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence. 'It sets the stage for Syria to rejoin global markets and attract regional investment.'
What's Changing—and What's Not
The sanctions relief is wide-ranging but not absolute. Restrictions tied to specific individuals and groups remain in place.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, emphasized that accountability remains a core U.S. priority, saying sanctions would still target 'those responsible for atrocities.'
Reaction from Syria and U.S. Officials
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani welcomed the move, calling it 'a long-awaited step toward rebuilding our nation.' The transitional government in Damascus had lobbied hard for the lifting of sanctions, especially as it attempts to distance itself from the legacy of the Assad era.
Thomas Barrack, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria, noted that the decision followed months of diplomatic and legal review.
'It's been a slow, meticulous process,' Barrack told reporters. 'But Syria needed a chance—and that's what it's been given.'
Concerns and Conditions Moving Forward
While the White House backs the new Syrian leadership, there's ongoing caution due to its roots in Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), a group formerly aligned with Al Qaeda. Still, Trump stated that the U.S. would give the new administration a 'chance to prove itself.'
Former war crimes ambassador Stephen Rapp also supported the sanctions lift, noting it enables efforts to identify thousands of missing Syrians and bring perpetrators to justice.
'This opens the door for truth and accountability,' Rapp said, referencing ongoing investigations into mass graves and missing persons—including Americans Austin Tice and Dr. Majd Kamalmaz.
What's Next?
To fully remove all remaining legal barriers, Congress must repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act. Two U.S. senators have already introduced a bill aiming to do just that.
In the meantime, Syria is set to re-enter international markets, and regional investors are already showing interest.
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