U.S.-Syria Presidential Meeting… Sanctions Lifted as Dictatorship Falls

The long-standing dictatorship in Syria has come to an end. As soon as the regime collapsed, a historic meeting between the presidents of the United States and Syria took place—something that would have been unimaginable until recently. President Trump met with Syria’s President al-Shara for 37 minutes in Saudi Arabia. Though brief, the meeting carried immense significance. President Trump described al-Shara as someone with “potential.” Al-Shara, once affiliated with the terrorist organization al-Qaeda, had a U.S. bounty of $10 million on his head. And yet, he is now Syria’s new leader—and has met with the President of the United States.

In the released footage, the two leaders are seen sitting in a lavish Saudi palace, communicating through interpreters, and initially appearing somewhat awkward.

Hind Kabawat, Syria’s transitional Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, stated, “At last, a new light is beginning to shine at the end of this tunnel.” In an interview with BBC’s Newshour, she said that the Syrian government had been requesting sanction relief since “Liberation Day.” Across Syria—where over 90% of the population lives in poverty after more than a decade of civil war and immense suffering—the atmosphere is celebratory following the U.S. decision to lift sanctions.

The lifting of sanctions, which had effectively cut Syria off from the global financial system, is expected to encourage investment and trade from international businesses and organizations. With Syria’s path back into the global economy now open, global investors have begun to respond eagerly.

As a journalist, I stayed at a hotel in Syria in December 2024. When I asked for an extra key card, the receptionist said, “We are the North Korea of the Middle East.” With tears in his eyes, he added, “We don’t even have enough key cards. Honestly, we’re lacking everything.” The lifting of sanctions is likely to become a pivotal moment for Syria in overcoming its poverty. It may also help the newborn government launch reconstruction efforts and begin addressing the grievances of a long-suffering population. Until now, Middle Eastern nations have hesitated to invest in Syria for fear of violating U.S. sanctions—but Trump’s decision has effectively opened the door to billions of dollars in potential investments.

President Trump called the lifting of sanctions “a tremendous opportunity” for Syria. With the collapse of one-man rule, Syrians are beginning to feel a flicker of hope that their lives may finally improve. Although full reconstruction will take time, the international community is at last beginning to pay attention to the hardships and hopes of the Syrian people. It is no exaggeration to say that a brighter future for Syrians—who have overcome dictatorship—is already on the horizon.