Wafric News – May 12, 2025

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — In a surprise announcement that could reshape the balance of power in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared his intention to lift longstanding sanctions on Syria, hailing what he called the nation’s "chance at greatness" following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

The move, made during Trump’s address at a Saudi investment forum in Riyadh on Tuesday, is expected to open the door for renewed U.S. engagement with Syria’s new leadership under President Ahmed al-Sharaa — a controversial former militant leader turned head of state, whose rise to power in December marked the official end of Assad’s decades-long rule.

“After years of tragedy and war, Syria deserves a fresh start,” Trump told the forum, flanked by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. “The sanctions were once necessary, but now it’s Syria’s time to shine.”

The announcement marks a major diplomatic pivot and is expected to raise eyebrows in Israel, which had intensified its military posture in Syria following Assad’s ouster. Trump, however, insists the decision followed consultation with key regional partners.

Trump confirmed that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet with Syria’s new foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, in Turkey later this week — the most significant contact yet between Washington and Damascus in over a decade.

Although the U.S. has not formally recognized al-Sharaa’s government, the announcement signals a thaw in relations. White House sources suggest Trump may greet al-Sharaa informally during his stay in Riyadh.

Al-Sharaa, once a commander of the militant group Jabhat al-Nusra, severed ties with al-Qaeda in 2016 and has since rebranded himself as a nationalist reformer. His ascent to power followed Assad’s collapse amid economic freefall and internal dissent.

Syria’s economy and trade minister, Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar, wept on live television while speaking to Saudi outlet Al Arabiya. “We are entering a new phase. Syria is back,” he said emotionally. “An economic renaissance is about to begin.”

Syrian streets lit up in celebration. Videos from Homs, Latakia, and other cities showed crowds waving Syrian and Saudi flags, chanting in support of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Fireworks and motorcades punctuated the atmosphere, reflecting hopes for renewed prosperity.

“Our revolution has cleared the way for rebirth,” said Osaid Basha, a resident of Homs. “Trump’s announcement marks the beginning of Syria’s recovery.”

Meanwhile, international response has been mixed. UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen welcomed the lifting of sanctions, emphasizing the need to restore access to healthcare, education, and economic activity.

On Capitol Hill, opinion remains divided. Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham voiced caution, noting the new Syrian government seized power through military force, not democratic means. “Relief must come with accountability,” he said. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, however, welcomed Trump’s decision, calling it “a long-awaited opportunity for Syria to rebuild.”

Analysts say the announcement is not just a win for Syria — it’s also a diplomatic victory for Saudi Arabia. “This is about optics and leverage,” said Natasha Hall of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “Trump’s public alignment with the Saudi-led rehabilitation of Syria signals a new regional order.”

Al-Shaar confirmed Syria is preparing for reintegration into SWIFT, the global financial messaging system, which would unlock billions in remittances and investment.

“Syrians abroad will send funds. Investors are already lining up. The path is clear,” the minister declared.

As global powers reassess their stance on Syria, Trump’s move could mark a pivotal moment in the region’s post-conflict recovery — and a striking reentry into international diplomacy for a former U.S. president seeking to reshape his legacy.


By WafricNews Desk.