In a major announcement during his visit to Saudi Arabia, U.S. President Donald Trump said that all sanctions on Syria will be lifted. He made this statement on Tuesday, May 13, during a speech in Riyadh.
President Trump explained that he made this decision after talking with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump said the Crown Prince gave him strong advice to support peace in the region.
“I have spoken with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. After careful thought, I have decided to lift all sanctions on Syria,” Trump said during his address. “We believe this will open a new door for peace and progress.”
The Syrian government welcomed the news with joy. Right after the announcement, celebrations broke out across Syria. People filled the streets, waving flags and singing songs. Many citizens expressed hope for a better future without the weight of foreign restrictions.
A government official in Syria said, “This is a great day for us. The end of the sanctions means we can rebuild our country and economy.”
The White House also gave a hint that President Trump may meet Syrian President Ahmed Al Sarar during his trip. Although there is no fixed time yet, reports suggest the two leaders could talk soon.
This would be the first meeting between leaders of the two countries in many years. If the meeting takes place, it may help improve the strained relationship between the U.S. and Syria.
In the past, the U.S. had placed several sanctions on Syria. These were during the time of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The U.S. government accused Assad of many human rights violations and acts of violence.
Last December, Bashar al-Assad was removed from power. Since then, Syria has seen some changes in leadership and policies. The new president, Ahmed Al Sarar, has promised to bring reforms and work with the world.
President Trump’s announcement is seen by many as a major step in rebuilding trust with Syria. It also marks a shift in U.S. policy in the Middle East.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson said, “We hope this move will support peace efforts. It’s a step toward stability in the region.”
Political experts are giving mixed reactions. Some say it is a bold move that may help Syria recover. Others warn that lifting the sanctions too early could backfire if reforms in Syria do not happen as promised.
However, both American and Syrian officials agree that the decision opens the door for dialogue. They also believe it may help with rebuilding the Syrian economy, which has been hit hard by war and sanctions.
Syria’s economy has long suffered due to these international restrictions. The removal of sanctions may help improve trade, allow aid to enter, and give people access to basic needs again.
In Damascus, a local shop owner named Omar said, “This gives us hope. Maybe now we can start again. We just want peace and a normal life.”
President Trump’s trip to Saudi Arabia is part of a larger tour in the region. He is expected to visit other countries and hold talks with key leaders about peace and security.
With the lifting of sanctions and the possible upcoming meeting between Trump and President Al Sarar, many are watching to see what happens next. The world now waits to see if this decision will bring real change to Syria and its people.