President Trump has lifted US sanctions on Syria and met with Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh. Syrians celebrated the decision, hoping it will boost the country’s economic revival. Analysts say that sanctions relief will be a boon to Syria, but may take some time to affect the country.
Syrian Forces Raid ISIL Hideouts in Aleppo
Syrian authorities reported that at least three ISIL fighters were killed and several others detained during raids in Aleppo.
World Bank Re-engages with Syria
Saudi and Qatari payments have settled Syria’s arrears, making the country eligible for new loans from the World Bank and IMF.
Return to Homs
Displaced families are returning to Homs after years of war, facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and homes. Three million homes were destroyed. Essential services are lacking in many places. Homs, like most parts of Syria, gets only a few hours of electricity a day.
Syria and the Abraham Accords
President Trump is asking Syria to join Abraham Accords, normalize ties with Israel in return for sanctions relief.
Background
The Syrian Civil War, beginning in 2011, led to the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. A transitional government led by former HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa is now in power. The conflict caused widespread displacement and destruction, with over half the population forced to move.