Washington, D.C.: In an unexpected diplomatic move, US President Donald Trump announced the temporary lifting of sanctions imposed under the stringent Caesar Act on Syria for a period of six months. The announcement followed a significant meeting between President Trump and Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara at the White House.
Constructive Engagement at the White House
According to Arab media reports, the two leaders engaged in detailed discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, ensuring regional peace, and addressing other international and regional issues. Following the meeting, President Trump offered an uncharacteristic compliment to the Syrian leader, stating: “I liked the Syrian President, and we will do everything possible for Syria to succeed because it is part of the Middle East.”
The US Treasury Department immediately followed up the constructive meeting with an announcement detailing the temporary suspension of the Caesar Act sanctions.
Rationale Behind Lifting the Sanctions
The Caesar Act, enacted in 2019, was primarily intended to exert pressure on the former Bashar al-Assad regime. The sanctions strictly prohibited US companies and citizens from conducting business with the Syrian government or its military.
Justifying the temporary suspension, the US Treasury Department stated that the move is intended to aid in the reconstruction of the Syrian economy and foster prosperity for its citizens. This measure is viewed as an effort to initiate economic recovery in a nation ravaged by years of conflict and international isolation. It is important to note that while the US had previously announced the lifting of some other sanctions in June, the core restrictions under the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act were the ones that remained in force until this latest temporary suspension.
