Trump Administration Lifts Sanctions on Syria to Support Reconstruction
WASHINGTON: The Trump administration on Friday announced the effective lifting of sanctions on Syria, following President Donald Trump’s recent commitment to ease restrictions to aid the country’s post-war recovery.
The U.S. Treasury Department issued a general license, identified as GL25, which permits transactions previously prohibited under the Syrian Sanctions Regulations. This includes dealings with Syria’s interim government led by President Ahmed al Sharaa, as well as the country’s central bank and state-run enterprises.
According to the Treasury’s statement, “GL25 authorises transactions prohibited by the Syrian Sanctions Regulations, effectively lifting sanctions on Syria,” and aims to encourage new investment and private sector activity in line with Trump’s “America First” strategy.
In a separate move, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a 180-day waiver under the Caesar Act to ensure that sanctions do not hinder investments or humanitarian efforts. The waiver is intended to support the provision of essential services such as electricity, water, energy, and sanitation.
“These actions mark the beginning of a new chapter in U.S.-Syria relations,” Rubio said. He emphasized that President Trump expects reciprocal actions from the Syrian government in response to the easing of sanctions.
