Breaking: United States Lifts Syria Sanctions, Signaling Major Policy Shift

In a stunning reversal, the United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order
rescinding
most sanctions against Syria, effective promptly. This decision, announced Monday, marks a
significant shift in Washington’s approach to Damascus and fulfills a promise to afford the burgeoning
state “a chance at greatness.”

While comprehensive sanctions are lifted, targeted measures remain in place for individuals linked to
the former Bashar Al-Assad regime and specified members within the revamped Syrian army. The
designation of Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, along with Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), as
terrorists is currently under review.

A dramatic Policy Reversal: Understanding the Shift in
Syria Sanctions

The initial imposition of the sanctions dates back to 1979 when Syria was labeled a state sponsor of
terrorism. Decades of sanctions, combined with over a decade of conflict, have crippled the Syrian
economy, plunging approximately 90% of it’s population below the poverty line, according to a recent
World Bank report
published in January 2024.

As Syria’s new administration forges ahead and the nation embarks on reconstruction, Washington is
re-evaluating its engagement strategy. The central question remains: How is the dynamic between the US
and Syria reshaping under Trump’s leadership, and what trajectory will future policies adopt?

Inside Renewed US Engagement with Syria

Natasha Hall, a senior associate at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS),
observes that previous US administrations lacked a coherent policy toward Syria. She noted a
disengagement, leading to basic conflict management aimed at maintaining a weakened but stable
Assad regime.

The unexpected collapse of the Assad regime last December prompted a major reassessment of US
strategy, according to Steven Heydemann, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute. Initially, many
anticipated a cautious approach from the Trump administration, hesitant to engage with the new
governmental structure.

Trump’s impromptu proclamation while in saudi Arabia in May that he would lift sanctions on Syria
defied expectations. Following this declaration, he reportedly met with Al-Sharaa, who remains
officially designated as a terrorist by the U.S.

heydemann underscores that Trump’s decision-making process often occurs without extensive
consultation, catching even his Middle East advisors off guard.

According to Radwan ziadeh, a senior fellow at the Arab Center Washington DC (ACW), Trump’s
“historic” action has made him remarkably popular in Syria, with expressions of gratitude towards
trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman appearing on the streets of Damascus.

Both Heydemann and Hall characterize the move as motivated by potential financial gains from Gulf
states. Hall suggests that Saudi Arabia offered substantial incentives. Ziadeh also notes the roles of Qatar
and Turkey, along with Syrian-American lobbying efforts.

Heydemann suggests Trump’s considerations are primarily self-serving rather than driven by foreign
policy objectives, focusing on how relationships can personally benefit him financially.

the Future of Syria: Key Considerations

President Al-Sharaa projects that
elections
will occur in Syria in approximately four to five years. Together, Al-Sharaa will appoint one-third
of the country’s
parliament
members. The remaining seats will be filled by committees established by a supreme committee appointed
by Al-Sharaa. Moreover, critical ministerial posts have been assigned to associates from Al-sharaa’s
past.

Analysts Hall and Heydemann caution that instability may arise if the democratic transition veers off
course.They foresee potential mass mobilizations and increased protests, heightening overall insecurity.

They note that US demands have largely centered on security, overlooking factors that could later
contribute to security challenges.

Ziadeh suggests that Syria will face pressure to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with
Israel. he believes the U.S. administration prioritizes this over democratic reforms, women’s rights, or
governance issues.

Did You Know? Despite the change in leadership, Israel has continued its military
activities, raising concerns about regional stability.

Since the fall of the Assad regime,Israel has reportedly encroached on Syrian territory,executed hundreds
of airstrikes,and provoked sectarian tensions,with minimal response from Washington. Heydemann
emphasizes that israel’s presence in Syria exacerbates instability and is strategically and diplomatically
detrimental.

Pro Tip: Track international relations to understand the evolving dynamics in the
Middle east. Follow think-tanks which provide daily briefs of all important regional events.

Conversely, Heydemann indicates that Israel has expressed unease regarding the trajectory of US policy
and the swiftness of reconciliation and acknowledgement of the Al-Sharaa government.

US Syria envoy, Barrack, mentioned in an interview, that Washington is facilitating substantial dialogue
between Damascus and Tel Aviv.

Looking ahead, Heydemann anticipates that the US will likely reduce its involvement in Syria, as regional
influencers, like Gulf states or Turkey, assume primary roles.He concludes that the U.S. under Trump’s
leadership is unlikely to view Syria as a paramount foreign policy concern outside of its entanglements
with US-Iran and US-Israel relations.

Key Facts: Syria’s Political Transition

What are your thoughts on the US policy shift in Syria? How do you think this will impact the region?
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US Syria Policy Shift: Causes & Future Outlook

Understanding the US’s Shifting Stance on Syria

The United States’ involvement in Syria has been a complex and evolving saga,marked by numerous policy adjustments. Understanding the US Syria policy shift requires delving into the root causes and related factors that have shaped Washington’s approach over time. The primary focus of this article will be how the USA engages with the syrian conflict, including considerations about diplomacy and humanitarian aid.

Past Context: US Involvement in Syria

US involvement in Syria can be traced back to the early stages of the Syrian Civil War. Initial responses frequently enough included a broad condemnation of the Assad regime. The USA initially supported certain rebel groups aiming to topple the Syrian dictator, Bashar al-Assad. The Obama administration, such as, aimed to provide moderate opposition groups with assistance.

• Early Intervention: Support for moderate rebel groups.
• Focus on Counterterrorism: Fighting ISIS in Syria.
• Shifting Priorities: Changing strategic goals.

Key Causes driving the US Policy Shift

Several key drivers have fueled the US Syria policy changes in recent years. These causes are multifaceted, encompassing geopolitical interests, changing alliances, and evolving security concerns.

1. Counterterrorism Objectives: The rise of ISIS substantially influenced US policy, leading to military operations and counterterrorism efforts focused on the Syrian territory.
2. Geopolitical Realities: The shifting sands of regional power, including the role of Russia and Iran, forced the US to re-evaluate its strategy.
3. Humanitarian Crisis: The ongoing humanitarian crisis within Syria, with the displacement of millions of Syrians, has weighed heavily on US policy considerations.
4. Changing Leadership: Changes in presidential administrations also led to shifts in priorities, each with distinct views on how to approach the Syrian conflict.

Impact of Policy Changes on Syria and the Region

The US Syria policy impact has far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the Syrian population but also the wider regional dynamics. Many different groups, including civilians and the numerous factions of the region like different nations, would be effected.

Consequences for Syrian Civilians

The ongoing conflict has brought about a dire humanitarian crisis. The policies pursued by the US have complex consequences, impacting the safety and well-being of Syrian civilians. Access to basic necessities, healthcare and humanitarian aid is of critical importance.

Regional Implications and Dynamics:

The US policy on Syria has meaningful ripple effects across the Middle East. The actions taken by the US affect alliances, the balance of power, and the broader regional stability:

Consider the following table highlighting critical shifts in the relationships.

Future Outlook: Navigating the Path Forward

The future of the US Syria policy presents a number of complex challenges and opportunities. The question is, how can the US policy evolve to ensure a stable and peaceful future for Syria?

Potential Diplomatic Strategies

Engaging diplomatically through alliances with key regional and international actors will be vital. The use of sanctions and humanitarian aid, while critically important, should be tailored to target key actors with the best impact.

Here are some potential steps:

• Re-engaging with international actors: such as the UN.
• Supporting peace negotiations: Aim for a political solution.
• Prioritizing humanitarian aid: and ensuring access to necessary resources.

Key Considerations for the Future

As the US charts its future course, several factors will need to be carefully considered. It is indeed vital to balance counterterrorism goals with human rights and to promote a future that provides stability for the Syrian people.

Consider these critical areas:

• Understanding the complexities: Assess the impact of policies on the ground.
• Prioritizing human rights: Ensuring accountability for abuses is essential.
• Working with allies: In promoting peace and establishing trust from partners.

The Brookings article ([1]) provides a valuable viewpoint on the need for the US to re-engage with the region through diplomatic avenues.