President Donald Trump announced the lifting of all U.S. sanctions on Syria during his recent Middle East tour, a move that has elicited a range of responses from Washington’s political landscape. The decision marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Syria, particularly following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad and the establishment of an interim government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa in December 2024. Al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda commander, has expressed a commitment to reducing Iranian influence in Syria and pursuing eventual normalization of relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords .
In a statement, President Trump described the lifting of sanctions as a “pivotal turning point” for Syria, emphasizing the country’s need for a “fresh start” after enduring years of conflict. He highlighted the potential for regional cooperation, including anti-terrorism collaboration with Syria and a firm stance against Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The announcement was made during a meeting with Syrian officials in Qatar, where Trump also secured substantial economic deals, including a record-breaking Boeing jet order worth over $200 billion.
The decision has been met with cautious optimism from some lawmakers, who view it as a potential step toward stability in the region. However, others have expressed concerns about the implications of engaging with Syria’s new leadership, given its controversial past. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer criticized the move, stating that it could undermine efforts to hold Syria accountable for its actions and potentially embolden other authoritarian regimes. He emphasized the need for a clear strategy to ensure that the lifting of sanctions leads to tangible improvements in Syria’s behavior.
The lifting of sanctions also raises questions about the future of U.S. involvement in the Middle East and its relationships with regional allies. Israel has expressed concerns about the potential for increased Iranian influence in Syria as a result of the policy shift. Additionally, the move could impact ongoing negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, as Syria has historically been an ally of Tehran. The Trump administration’s approach to Syria and its broader Middle East policy will likely continue to be a topic of debate in Washington in the coming weeks.
