Trump Administration Lifts Syria Sanctions to Boost Post-War Recovery

The Trump administration has moved to lift sanctions on Syria, aiming to support its post-war reconstruction and signal a potential shift in U.S.-Syria relations. On Friday, the Treasury Department issued General License 25 (GL25), authorizing transactions previously prohibited under the Syrian Sanctions Regulations. This includes dealings with Syria’s interim government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, the central bank, and major state-owned enterprises.

The license enables private sector investments and transactions that align with President Trump’s "America First" economic strategy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also granted a 180-day waiver under the Caesar Act to prevent sanctions from hindering essential infrastructure projects and humanitarian aid.

Rubio emphasized this step as a foundation for a "new relationship" between Washington and Damascus. Following a recent meeting in Riyadh, Trump urged Syria to meet key conditions, including the expulsion of foreign fighters, the deportation of designated Palestinian militants, and collaboration with U.S. efforts to suppress ISIS resurgence.

Syria's Foreign Ministry welcomed the move, calling it a “positive step” toward easing economic hardship and fostering diplomatic engagement. It reiterated its commitment to non-interference and dialogue in international relations.

The lifted sanctions now allow transactions with entities like Syrian Arab Airlines, the Central Bank of Syria, state oil companies, and the Four Seasons Damascus hotel. Sharaa, previously sanctioned under the alias Abu Muhammad al-Jawlani, is also cleared under the new license.

While the U.S. has long isolated Syria through layers of sanctions since 1979, especially after the 2011 civil conflict, this policy reversal—reportedly influenced by Saudi Arabia’s crown prince—could reopen Syria to foreign aid and investment. However, risks remain, as fears of reinstated sanctions may still deter private-sector engagement.