Order to maintain restrictions on Assad, associates, and drug traffickers. In a significant foreign policy development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled plans to partially lift sanctions on Syria, marking a potential shift in Washington’s longstanding stance toward the war-torn nation. While the proposed order will still uphold strict sanctions against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, his close associates, and known drug trafficking networks, it aims to ease restrictions on broader economic sectors and humanitarian trade.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate the policy change is being framed as an effort to promote regional stability, facilitate post-war reconstruction, and support humanitarian relief operations. The sanctions relief may include sectors like agriculture, telecommunications, and essential medical supplies.
Critics, however, warn that easing sanctions could weaken leverage over Assad’s regime and send the wrong message about accountability for human rights abuses. Proponents argue the move could improve civilian living conditions and help counter growing Iranian and Russian influence in Syria.
If this move were to be put into practice, it would be one of the most significant changes to U.S. Middle East policy in more than ten years, with repercussions for the region’s diplomatic, economic, and security environments.
