US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday that lifts US sanctions on Syria. This move ends the country’s long isolation from the global financial system.
Earlier Promise Now Fulfilled
Trump had already announced in May that he planned to ease the sanctions. He said the goal was to help Syria rebuild after years of civil war.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the order is meant to offer a better future for Syria. “It’s an action the president promised,” she said. Leavitt added that Trump wants Syria to be “stable, unified, and at peace with itself and its neighbors,” according to the Associated Press. She also said, “This is another promise made and promise kept.”
Some Sanctions Still Remain
Despite this major change, several key sanctions are still in place. According to Reuters, restrictions continue against former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his top allies. Sanctions also remain on individuals involved in human rights violations, drug trafficking, chemical weapons programs, ISIS, and Iran-backed groups.
Major Shift in US Policy
This decision marks a significant shift in US policy. Back in May, Trump met Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia. During the meeting, Trump promised to lift sanctions and even consider restoring diplomatic ties with Syria.
The new executive order also ends the “national emergency” declared in 2004. That declaration had led to sweeping sanctions, including those targeting Syria’s central bank and financial institutions.
Syrian Officials Welcome the Move
Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani responded positively. He said the decision would “open the door to long-awaited reconstruction and development.”
Terror Label Still Stands
However, the US still lists Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism. That label continues to block most foreign investments and is unlikely to be removed soon.
Signs of Financial Reintegration Appear
Despite ongoing restrictions, signs of Syria’s return to the global economy are emerging. Recently, Syria completed its first international electronic banking transaction since the civil war began in 2011.
Israel Watches Closely
Meanwhile, Israel has shown interest in improving relations with Syria. This could indicate more regional changes in the near future.
