In a major diplomatic shift, U.S. President Donald J. Trump has signed an executive order lifting broad American sanctions on Syria — a move officials say is aimed at reintegrating the war-torn country into the global financial system.
While the move signals a softening of the United States’ stance on Syria’s economic isolation, the White House clarified that targeted sanctions will remain in place.
These will continue to apply to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, his close allies, major drug trafficking networks, and designated terrorist organizations including ISIS.
White House spokesperson Carolyn Levitt said in a press release, “The executive order allows economic space for humanitarian and development progress, but maintains pressure on actors who threaten peace, stability, and human rights.”
From Damascus, Syrian Foreign Minister Asad Al Shibani welcomed the announcement, calling it “a long-awaited opportunity to finally unlock national development and economic recovery.”
Syria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Aklewum added that the decision will “remove key barriers to economic movement and signal a new phase of openness with the international community.”
The White House emphasized that continued cooperation from the Syrian government will be critical. Washington expects movement on regional peace efforts, including steps toward normalization with Israel and intensified efforts against terrorist groups.
The announcement has sparked cautious optimism among international observers, though some warn that the success of this diplomatic pivot hinges on genuine reforms within Syria and a collaborative posture in regional security affairs.
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