President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Monday that will formally lift all sanctions on Syria. This move is part of his broader strategy to normalize relations with Syria, which has been a contentious issue given the country’s complex geopolitical position and its relationship with Iran. The White House announced this decision, emphasizing its commitment to supporting a stable and peaceful Syria while maintaining sanctions on former President Bashar al-Assad and his associates, as well as groups like ISIS and Iranian proxies.
The executive order aims to remove sanctions on Syria, with the administration stating that this will promote peace and stability. However, some sanctions will still require congressional approval, and others date back to 1979, when Syria was designated a state sponsor of terrorism. Despite this designation, the administration has not yet taken steps to lift it. The new order comes as Trump meets with Syria’s new interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose group, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, overthrew Assad in March. This group, originally an offshoot of al Qaeda, has undergone a significant transformation in its public image, aiming to gain U.S. recognition and support.
Al-Sharaa has been seeking to rebuild his reputation and secure U.S. relations by offering tangible incentives, including the construction of a Trump Tower in Damascus, a security pact with Israel, and access to Syria’s oil and gas resources. These proposals are part of his efforts to portray HTS as a more moderate and acceptable actor in the region. The administration’s decision to lift sanctions is seen as a high-risk, high-reward gamble, with potential implications for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy. As back-channel talks between Israel and Syria continue, the outcome of this strategic move remains uncertain and closely watched by international observers.