President Trump has signed an executive order to lift numerous economic sanctions on Syria, allowing for potential reconstruction efforts following years of civil war. Despite lingering worries regarding the new president's past connections to extremist groups, regional partners urge for swift recovery of the war-torn nation.
U.S. Eases Sanctions on Syria as New Leadership Emerges
U.S. Eases Sanctions on Syria as New Leadership Emerges
In a significant shift in policy, President Trump lifts many sanctions on Syria, promoting economic recovery under new leadership, despite concerns over security ties.
On June 30, 2025, President Trump took a major step in reshaping U.S. foreign policy by signing an executive order that removes many of the long-standing economic sanctions imposed on Syria. This announcement follows a surprise meeting between Trump and Syria's recently appointed President Ahmed al-Shara during a trip to the Middle East, which marked a turning point in relations between Washington and Damascus.
The new leadership under al-Shara, who climbed to power after his forces overthrew the former dictator Bashar al-Assad, has raised both hope and concern. While Trump praised al-Shara as “young, attractive,” and “tough,” a mix of skepticism remains among U.S. officials due to the president's previous links with jihadist organizations, including Al Qaeda, despite his claimed severance from those ties.
Unlike the sanctions imposed during al-Assad's regime—some lasting over two decades, which had hindered investment and recovery—Trump's latest executive order focuses on easing restrictions related to major Syrian financial entities, including the central bank. However, sanctions against Assad and his affiliates will continue, particularly against those involved in human rights violations and drug trafficking, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
The lifting of these sanctions comes at a critical juncture as Syria’s Arab neighbors express eagerness for reconstruction opportunities that could restore stability to the region, a concerning factor over the years due to terrorism and migration crises stemming from the Syrian conflict. Addressing this need for reconstruction, Trump has delivered on his promise made during his trip, stating it's time for Syria to have “a chance” to rebuild and move past its devastating civil war that erupted in March 2011.
