Trump Lifts Sanctions on Syria, Meets Interim President Sharaa

Trump’s Sanctions Lift Sparks Hope for Syrian Reconstruction

Updated May 14, 2025, at 9:19 AM EDT

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — In a significant diplomatic move, President Trump announced the lifting of U.S. sanctions against Syria during his meeting with the country’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa. This decision brings optimism to a nation eager to emerge from the shadows of civil unrest and international seclusion.

Describing Sharaa as a “young, attractive guy — tough guy” with a “strong past,” Trump expressed confidence in the former rebel’s ability to stabilize Syria. “He’s got a real shot at pulling it together,” Trump remarked aboard Air Force One.

The decision to lift the sanctions came after requests from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Trump acknowledged the challenges ahead but noted, “It’s not going to be easy anyway. So it gives them a good, strong chance, and it was my honor to do so,” addressing the Gulf Cooperation Council in Riyadh.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced on social media that Trump also encouraged Sharaa to join the Abraham Accords to normalize relations with Israel and deter terrorism. Although the media was not present, an image of the meeting was released by the White House.

For two decades, U.S. sanctions targeted the regime of Bashar al-Assad, who succeeded his father, Hafez al-Assad, as Syria’s ruler. The sanctions remained even after Assad fled amid a swift campaign led by Sharaa and his rebel coalition last December. Sharaa, once on the U.S. terrorist list for ties to al-Qaida and the Islamic State, was delisted as he promised inclusivity for Syria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.

Sharaa Shows Diplomatic Prowess Amid Skepticism

While Sharaa’s past continues to cause concern, with violent clashes between his supporters and ethnic minorities, his diplomatic efforts have been noted. He has been actively engaging with international leaders, including a recent meeting with France’s President Emmanuel Macron, aiming to rally support for sanction relief and reconstruction efforts.

Sharaa’s administration has hinted at a potential warming of relations with Israel, despite recent Israeli airstrikes in Syria aimed at preventing weapons from falling into extremist hands and protecting the Druze minority near the Golan Heights. Israeli forces have taken positions along this border area, citing territorial protection.

The announcement of lifting sanctions was met with applause at a Saudi investment forum, with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman leading the accolades. Sanctions had previously inhibited foreign investments, forcing Syria to consider financial support from Russia, an ally of the former regime.

With its rich mineral and oil resources, Syria presents lucrative opportunities for Gulf states eager to invest, now unencumbered by previous U.S. restrictions.

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