Syrian leader urges lifting sanctions as US keeps targeted measures in place
Syrian presidency says President Ahmad al-Shar’ discussed lifting remaining sanctions in a phone call with former US President Donald Trump, arguing the move is essential to revive the Syrian economy and attract Gulf investment.
Syrian President Calls for Lifting Remaining Sanctions
The Syrian presidency announced that President Ahmad al-Shar’ spoke by phone with former US President Donald Trump to discuss ways to support the country’s battered economy.
Syrian officials told state media that al-Shar’ described removal of the remaining sanctions as a critical step to restore economic activity, improve living conditions and encourage fresh investment.
Damascus framed the conversation as part of broader efforts to normalise Syria’s economic relations after years of conflict and international restrictions.
Syrian spokespeople said the president urged that unwinding the remaining measures would accelerate reconstruction and ease hardship for ordinary citizens.
US Confirms Targeted Sanctions Will Remain
US authorities, however, made clear that while most sanctions have been lifted and the Caesar Act repealed, a set of targeted measures will stay in force.
Washington emphasised these residual sanctions will continue to focus on President Bashar al-Assad, his inner circle and individuals accused of serious human-rights abuses.
The US also signalled it will keep designations against those it deems responsible for trafficking and other destabilising activities in the region.
Officials cited concerns over networks linked to captagon smuggling and other illicit commerce as reasons for preserving select restrictions.
State-Sponsor of Terrorism Designation Under Review
Washington said it is reviewing Syria’s classification as a state sponsor of terrorism, a label that carries wide-ranging legal and financial consequences.
That designation limits access to some forms of foreign assistance, constrains defence-related exports and imposes additional hurdles on international financial transactions.
A review process could lead to changes that affect the flow of humanitarian aid, diplomatic ties and private-sector engagement.
US officials indicated any reassessment would be measured and conditional, reflecting security and human-rights considerations.
Gulf States Signal Investment, Saudi Plans Highlighted
Damascus asserted that several Gulf states, notably Saudi Arabia, have expressed readiness to channel billions of dollars into Syrian reconstruction projects.
Syrian officials said Riyadh and other Gulf capitals are preparing financial packages and investment plans aimed at revitalising infrastructure and key industries.
Those pledges, if realised, would hinge on clearer sanctions relief and guarantees for investors operating in a volatile environment.
Analysts note Gulf-state involvement could provide vital capital but also requires transparent frameworks and risk-mitigation arrangements.
Economic Stakes for Damascus and Citizens
Syrian authorities argue that lifting the remaining sanctions is a prerequisite for a sustainable recovery and improved living standards for millions of Syrians.
Proponents say removal of barriers would unlock trade, restore supply chains and make it feasible for businesses to operate without the extra cost and uncertainty posed by sanctions.
Critics caution that economic reopening without accountability risks entrenching the power of elites and shielding those accused of abuses.
They also warn that investors will seek guarantees on security, property rights and the rule of law before committing substantial funds.
Diplomatic and Financial Roadmap Ahead
Officials from both Damascus and Washington emphasised that any change in sanctions policy will follow negotiations and a series of conditions, rather than be unilateral and immediate.
Diplomats expect a mix of diplomatic engagement, legal reviews and monitoring mechanisms to shape the path forward.
Observers say the sequence of actions — from targeted sanctions remaining in place to possible adjustments in Syria’s terrorism designation — will determine how quickly international capital and aid return.
For Gulf investors, clear timelines, legal protections and transparent oversight will be decisive factors in moving from pledges to on-the-ground projects.
The coming weeks are likely to see a careful balancing act between economic recovery aims and concerns about accountability and regional security, with Damascus pushing for relief while Washington signals continued emphasis on targeted measures.