RIYADH, May 14, 2025 — President Donald Trump announced the full removal of U.S. sanctions on Syria during a high-profile economic forum in Saudi Arabia, signaling a major shift in American foreign policy.
The decision, made after consultations with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, clears the path for renewed economic and diplomatic engagement with Syria. Trump stated that lifting sanctions was necessary to give Syria “a chance at greatness.”
Meeting with Syrian President Scheduled
Trump is scheduled to meet with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on Wednesday in Riyadh, according to White House officials. Sharaa, a former al Qaeda commander who assumed leadership following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, has been working to reestablish government control in the country.
Implications for Humanitarian and Economic Engagement
Ending sanctions removes barriers that had effectively blocked Syria from participating in global financial systems. This development is expected to:
- Facilitate humanitarian operations
- Encourage foreign investment
- Support Syria’s reconstruction efforts
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani called the move a “turning point” and expressed willingness to develop a constructive relationship with the United States.
International Reactions
The decision drew mixed international reactions. While the United Nations praised the lifting of sanctions for enabling humanitarian work, Israel expressed ongoing concerns about Sharaa’s past affiliations. Despite severing ties with al Qaeda in 2016, Sharaa’s leadership remains controversial.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun welcomed the announcement, calling it a positive step toward regional stability.
Congressional and Expert Perspectives
Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers showed cautious support. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen emphasized the strategic importance of deterring Iranian and Russian influence, while Sen. Lindsey Graham noted the potential for Syria to become a “stable part of the region,” pending further evaluation.
Alex Zerden of the Center for a New American Security described the rollback as a complex unraveling of longstanding sanctions and restrictions.
Background on Sanctions and Syria’s Internal Conflict
Syria had been under extensive U.S. sanctions due to its civil war and ties to Iran and Russia. The country’s internal strife continues, with intermittent violence involving pro- and anti-government forces. In recent months, Assad loyalists clashed with factions now aligned under Sharaa’s leadership.
The U.S. lifted a $10 million bounty on Sharaa in December 2024, citing changed circumstances. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet with Syria’s foreign minister later this week to explore further normalization.
UN Perspective and Future Outlook
The United Nations reiterated its stance on the importance of sanctions relief to assist in Syria’s recovery from over a decade of conflict and underinvestment.
Although Syria remains under other international watchlists due to historical ties with extremist groups, the current administration under Sharaa has sought to distance itself from its past and open a dialogue with neighboring countries and the West.
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