Trump Signs Executive Order to Lift Sanctions on Syria

On Monday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at lifting US sanctions on Syria, taking a significant step towards reestablishing relations with a nation long embroiled in a devastating civil war.

The thaw in US-Syria relations began in May after the Islamic extremist group Hayat Tahri al-Sham (HTS) ousted former President Bashar al-Assad, leading to the formation of a new government under interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa. The executive order will lift sanctions against the Syrian government while keeping measures in place against Assad, ISIS, Iranian representatives, and various terrorist organizations.

“This is an effort to promote and support the nation’s path to stability and peace,” White House Press Director Karoline Leavitt stated during a press conference. “This holds another promise to promote peace and stability in the region.”

The order specifically removes sanctions against Syria but does maintain them for various figures associated with the previous regime, including those involved in human rights abuses, drug trafficking, and chemical weapons activities.

The situation in Syria has been complicated since the civil war erupted in 2011, with multiple factions vying for control and external powers like the US and Russia backing different sides for their own interests. The US has maintained a military presence in Syria since 2014, primarily focused on combating the Islamic State.

The new government led by Sharaa presents a more pro-Western image compared to Assad, with some media outlets describing it as “moderate.” Yet, it’s unclear how this administration will address the concerns of various minority groups in the country, especially in light of recent reports of violence against the Alawite community.

The Trump administration appears eager to improve relations with this new government and is keen on advancing the Abraham Accord, a framework aimed at enhancing ties between Arab nations and Israel.