Trump Shocks World with Bold Move: U.S. Lifts Sanctions on Syria in Stunning Policy Reversal
In a move that has stunned global observers and sparked intense debate, President Donald Trump has officially signed an executive order lifting most U.S. economic sanctions on Syria — a dramatic reversal of decades-long American policy.
Announced Monday, the decision comes just weeks after Trump’s private meeting with Syria’s new interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Saudi Arabia. The president’s action delivers on a bold promise: to reopen the door to Syria’s economic future after more than a decade of devastating civil war and near-total isolation.
“This is another promise made and promise kept,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
According to the Treasury Department, the order is designed to restore Syria’s access to the global financial system, encouraging foreign investment and regional trade partnerships, including with the United States.
💥 What’s Changing?
- Most economic sanctions are gone
- Five previous executive orders revoked
- National emergency declared in 2004 officially ended
Brad Smith, Treasury’s acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, said the goal is to galvanize commerce and end Syria’s international isolation.
❗What’s Not Changing?
Sanctions tied to former President Bashar al-Assad, his allies, and those accused of human rights violations, drug trafficking, and involvement in chemical weapons programs will remain firmly in place. These Caesar Act sanctions can only be lifted by Congress.
The U.S. is also keeping restrictions on:
- Terrorist organizations operating in or linked to Syria
- Manufacturers and traffickers of the amphetamine-like drug Captagon
🕊️ A Path to Peace or a Risky Bet?
The announcement follows growing calls — even within international circles — to rebuild Syria’s shattered economy and stabilize the region. The European Union has also followed suit, lifting nearly all of its own sanctions.
Still, not everyone is on board.
Despite this sweeping change, Syria remains listed by the U.S. as a state sponsor of terrorism, and the group led by al-Sharaa is still designated a foreign terrorist organization. A State Department official confirmed both labels are currently under review.
⚡ Why It Matters
Trump’s move could redefine U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and reshape Syria’s role on the world stage. But critics argue it may also open the door to new risks if not carefully managed.
Whether this bold shift leads to lasting peace or unintended consequences, one thing is clear — the world is watching.
