U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to end several major U.S. economic sanctions on Syria. The decision fulfills a promise he made to Syria’s new interim leader and marks a significant shift in America’s policy toward the war-torn country.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the move is aimed at helping Syria on its path toward peace, stability, and economic recovery. She explained that lifting these sanctions is part of a broader plan to support Syria’s return to normalcy after years of conflict.
The U.S. Treasury Department also highlighted the importance of this step. Brad Smith, the Treasury’s acting undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, told reporters that the executive order is designed to reconnect Syria with the global economy. He said it would open the door for international trade and investment from countries in the region, as well as from American companies.
“This action is about bringing Syria back into the global financial system,” Smith said. “We want to help rebuild the country’s economy and improve conditions for the Syrian people.”
However, the administration made it clear that not all sanctions are being lifted. Restrictions will remain in place against former President Bashar al-Assad, his top aides, family members, and other officials accused of serious human rights abuses. These include crimes such as torture, the use of chemical weapons, and involvement in drug trafficking.
“The U.S. government will continue to hold accountable those responsible for atrocities,” Smith emphasized. “Our support is for the Syrian people, not for those who led the country into crisis.”
The U.S. decision follows a similar move by the European Union, which earlier announced plans to ease its own sanctions on Syria. European leaders said their goal was to help the country recover and promote economic development.
The new U.S. policy marks a hopeful moment for Syria, which has suffered more than a decade of civil war, economic collapse, and international isolation. Millions of Syrians have fled their homes, while those who remain face high unemployment, food shortages, and crumbling infrastructure.
Trump’s executive order is expected to encourage neighboring countries and international investors to re-engage with Syria. Economic experts say rebuilding Syria will require large-scale foreign investment and cooperation with global financial institutions.
Still, the path ahead remains complex. While the interim government in Syria has promised reform and peace, the country must overcome deep political divisions and ongoing security challenges. It remains unclear how quickly or fully Syria will be able to rejoin the global community.
For now, the lifting of sanctions is being viewed as a step in the right direction. U.S. officials hope it will boost the new leadership’s efforts to stabilize the nation and create better living conditions for ordinary Syrians.
“This is about giving Syrians a chance to rebuild their country,” said Leavitt. “We’re hopeful this action will lead to lasting peace and prosperity.”
In summary, President Trump’s move to ease economic restrictions signals a major policy change, with the goal of supporting Syria’s recovery. While some penalties remain in place for past abuses, the overall message is one of hope, investment, and the chance for a better future.
