Trump Eases Sanctions on Syria, Aligns With New Leadership

In a significant move, President Trump has signed an executive order to lift many long-standing economic sanctions against Syria, embracing the new Syrian government led by Ahmed al-Shara while maintaining restrictions on former dictator Bashar al-Assad.

In a surprising shift in U.S. foreign policy, President Trump signed an executive order on June 30, 2025, that will lift a significant portion of the economic sanctions placed on Syria, indicating a strategic turn towards the new leadership in Damascus. This decision comes after President Ahmed al-Shara, who ascended to power following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, was described by Trump as “young, attractive,” and a leader who deserves a chance to guide Syria’s rebuilding after years of devastating civil war.

The sanctions being dismantled include those targeting entities tied to Syria's central bank and other major financial institutions. While the executive order seeks to open doors for international investment and reconstruction in Syria—an effort aligned with the desires of several neighboring Arab nations—the U.S. still retains sanctions against Assad and others accused of various crimes, ensuring that accountability remains a part of the equation.

Despite the lifting of many sanctions, apprehensions linger among U.S. officials regarding al-Shara’s previously established connections with jihadist groups, including Al Qaeda, though he had disassociated with them years ago. Trump's decision aligns with his earlier commitments made during a trip to Saudi Arabia, and it illustrates a broader strategy of re-engagement with a region that has long faced instability, terrorism, and humanitarian crises.

This new diplomatic approach may be met with mixed reactions, with advocates emphasizing the potential for regional stability and economic revival while critics express concerns about legitimizing leadership with a controversial history.