US Eases Syria Sanctions After Trump-Sharaa Meeting

The United States has initiated a significant rollback of sanctions on Syria following a landmark meeting between President Donald Trump and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh on May 14.

On May 23, the Treasury Department issued General License 25 (GL25), allowing transactions previously banned under the Syrian Sanctions Regulations.

GL25 specifically authorizes dealings with Syria’s interim government, including the Central Bank, Syrian Arab Airlines, and key state enterprises. It also covers Sharaa himself, previously sanctioned under his former nom de guerre Abu Muhammad al-Jawlani.

Caesar Act Waiver Opens 180-Day Investment Window

Secretary of State Marco Rubio simultaneously announced a 180-day waiver under the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act to facilitate humanitarian aid and infrastructure rebuilding. This temporary waiver lifts penalties on projects related to electricity, water, health, and reconstruction sectors, enabling international donors and investors to re-engage with Syria.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the decision a step toward “a bright, prosperous, and stable future” for the war-torn nation.

We welcome the U.S. decision to lift sanctions. This step is a significant opportunity for humanitarian and economic recovery. Syria is ready for cooperation based on mutual respect.

— Syrian Foreign Ministry

Trump’s Conditions for Normalization

In exchange for sanctions relief, President Trump has reportedly asked Syria to:

• Expel foreign militants, including Iranian forces;
• Deport individuals designated as Palestinian terrorists;
• Assist the U.S. in suppressing ISIS resurgence efforts.

The White House said these steps are necessary to “promote peace and stability” both within Syria and across the region.

The move marks a dramatic pivot in U.S. policy. Sanctions originally imposed in 2011 targeted the Assad regime after it cracked down violently on uprisings. Sharaa, a former rebel commander, led the coalition that overthrew Assad in December 2024. The shift to formal engagement reflects U.S. hopes of reestablishing regional balance through conditional diplomacy.

However, Washington retains numerous restrictions tied to Syria’s historical designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, and private investors remain wary of legal and political risks tied to any future reversal.