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On May 13, 2025, Trump removes Syria sanctions in a bold policy reversal, announcing the decision at a Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh.
Speaking to investors and regional leaders, he called the sanctions “brutal and crippling” but claimed they had “served their purpose.”
Takeaway: A longtime U.S. foreign policy pillar has just been scrapped.
Why the Sudden Change?
According to Trump, the move came after talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Both urged the U.S. to lift economic pressure on Syria to support post-war reconstruction. Trump removes Syria sanctions as part of what he calls a broader effort to “give Syria a chance at greatness.”
Takeaway: The decision followed high-level diplomacy—not just a solo pivot.
Who’s in Charge in Syria Now?
The sanctions lift comes months after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Syria is now governed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda affiliate who reportedly severed ties in 2016.
While Syrian officials call the move a “pivotal turning point,” Israeli leaders have expressed concern about the new leadership.
Takeaway: The U.S. is now backing a post-Assad government with a complicated past.
Diplomacy Resumes—Cautiously
This marks the first real step toward restoring U.S.-Syria relations in over a decade. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani in Turkey later this week.
Meanwhile, Trump is expected to briefly meet with al-Sharaa in Riyadh—the first such meeting between U.S. and Syrian presidents in 25 years.
Takeaway: After years of isolation, the U.S. is reopening diplomatic lines with Syria.
A Risky Bet?
As Trump removes Syria sanctions, critics warn of unintended consequences. Skeptics point to al-Sharaa’s past and question whether the country is ready for full reintegration.
Still, the Trump administration insists this is a necessary move to stabilize the region and reward reform.
Takeaway: The door is open—but what walks through it remains uncertain.
