Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, on Thursday in Antalya, Turkey, marking a significant indication of increasing American support for Syria following President Trump's recent announcement to lift U.S. sanctions. This meeting occurred two days after Trump revealed the sanctions decision during a visit to Saudi Arabia, which could provide Syria with crucial economic assistance after years of civil war.
During their discussions, the two officials talked about a potential framework for lifting the sanctions, although specific details and timelines remain unspecified. Rubio indicated that the primary objective of the U.S. is to promote a peaceful and stable Syria, expressing optimism regarding Syria’s new government’s calls for a peaceful relationship with Israel and the expulsion of terrorists.
Rubio stated that the Trump administration would initially issue a temporary waiver of certain sanctions imposed by Congress, facilitating financial support for Syria and allowing neighboring countries to engage in reconstruction efforts without the fear of U.S. penalties. He mentioned that as progress occurs, the administration might seek Congress's support for the permanent repeal of remaining sanctions, although he acknowledged that this was still premature.
The lifting of sanctions was seen as a significant triumph for Syria’s new leadership, led by al-Shara, who has been working to present his government internationally after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. While the president can lift some restrictions, others require congressional approval, and experts caution that the process may be lengthy. The Treasury Department has begun the steps necessary to lift certain sanctions, stating that such actions could aid in rebuilding Syria’s economy and infrastructure.
During the meeting, U.S. officials underscored the necessity of building mutual trust between the United States and Syria, urging the new Syrian leadership to combat terrorism on its soil. Attendees included Turkey’s foreign minister and president, as well as Senator Lindsey Graham, who expressed his intent to collaborate on sanctions relief and potentially rescind Syria’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism under U.S. law.
Al-Shara, who has attempted to transition his image from a jihadist leader to a moderate statesman, described the U.S. decision to lift sanctions as a pivotal moment for Syria, claiming it would alleviate suffering and contribute to regional stability. The U.S. first imposed sanctions on Syria in the 1970s, intensifying restrictions during the civil war, but there have been recent discussions among some Western nations about easing these measures following the change in leadership.
The ongoing U.S. sanctions have severely impacted Syria’s economy, with over 90 percent of the population living in poverty, as reported by the United Nations. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have expressed intentions to assist Syria with its $15 million debt to the World Bank while considering providing public sector salaries, albeit with caution regarding U.S. sanctions compliance.