Syrians in Aleppo, the nation’s largest city, celebrated joyfully after President Trump announced he would lift U.S. sanctions on Syria. This declaration, made during a speech in Saudi Arabia, has ignited hopes for economic improvement in a country ravaged by more than ten years of civil war and hardship.
“Nothing feels better,” expressed Sami al-Hajj, a local pharmacist. He acknowledged the fears that have haunted families in recent years, declaring optimism for a future filled with opportunities now that sanctions could be lifted. These sanctions had long excluded Syria from the international banking system, hampering money transfers and blocking necessary imports, which severely limited economic engagement with global markets.
In a historic meeting in Damascus with Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Shara, Trump signified diplomatic recognition of the new regime, marking the first interaction between leaders of the two nations in 25 years. al-Shara, a former rebel leader credited with dethroning Bashar al-Assad, is still designated by the U.S. as a terrorist due to his previous ties with Al Qaeda.
After their half-hour discussion, the White House spokesperson stated that Trump encouraged al-Shara to pursue peace negotiations with Israel, expel foreign terrorists, and assist in the fight against the Islamic State. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was also expected to engage with al-Shara’s foreign minister to explore further collaborations.
The lifting of sanctions is seen as vital for the new government’s agenda to initiate rebuilding efforts across the war-torn nation. Citizens express hope that life will improve significantly, as lower prices for wage goods such as bread and gasoline and enhanced access to electricity could soon become a reality.
“Nothing feels better,” expressed Sami al-Hajj, a local pharmacist. He acknowledged the fears that have haunted families in recent years, declaring optimism for a future filled with opportunities now that sanctions could be lifted. These sanctions had long excluded Syria from the international banking system, hampering money transfers and blocking necessary imports, which severely limited economic engagement with global markets.
In a historic meeting in Damascus with Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Shara, Trump signified diplomatic recognition of the new regime, marking the first interaction between leaders of the two nations in 25 years. al-Shara, a former rebel leader credited with dethroning Bashar al-Assad, is still designated by the U.S. as a terrorist due to his previous ties with Al Qaeda.
After their half-hour discussion, the White House spokesperson stated that Trump encouraged al-Shara to pursue peace negotiations with Israel, expel foreign terrorists, and assist in the fight against the Islamic State. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was also expected to engage with al-Shara’s foreign minister to explore further collaborations.
The lifting of sanctions is seen as vital for the new government’s agenda to initiate rebuilding efforts across the war-torn nation. Citizens express hope that life will improve significantly, as lower prices for wage goods such as bread and gasoline and enhanced access to electricity could soon become a reality.
