In a surprising turn of events, the United States has lifted sanctions on Syria, coinciding with the World Bank’s decision to fund reconstruction efforts in the war-torn country. This marks a significant shift in international policy towards Syria, which has been grappling with the aftermath of a devastating civil war since 2011.
US Lifts Sanctions Following Meeting
The US decision follows a recent meeting between President Donald Trump and Syria’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Saudi Arabia. Trump reportedly described al-Sharaa as “an attractive guy with a very strong past,” signaling a potential thaw in relations. The lifting of sanctions is expected to provide a much-needed boost to Syria’s struggling economy.
World Bank Re-Engages with Syria
Simultaneously, the World Bank has announced that Syria is now eligible for new loans after debts were cleared through payments from Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This move allows the World Bank and IMF to re-engage with Syria, opening doors for substantial financial assistance to rebuild infrastructure and support economic development.
UN Security Council Discusses Syria’s Transition
These developments come as the UN Security Council recently discussed Syria’s transition, highlighting tentative political progress but also ongoing violence, economic hardship, and a humanitarian crisis. The UN Special Envoy for Syria emphasized the need for greater political inclusion and economic action for the transition to succeed, with less than 10% of the required funds for relief efforts received in the first half of 2025.
Security Operations in Aleppo
Meanwhile, Syrian authorities reported the killing of three ISIL fighters and the detention of four others in Aleppo. These raids, conducted by the General Security Department in coordination with the General Intelligence Service, targeted multiple ISIL sleeper cells, underscoring the ongoing security challenges in the region.
Background: The Syrian Civil War
The backdrop to these developments is the Syrian Civil War, which began in March 2011 and led to the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. The conflict involved numerous factions and international actors, resulting in widespread destruction and displacement. As Syria embarks on a fragile transition, the lifting of US sanctions and the World Bank’s re-engagement offer a glimmer of hope for reconstruction and stability.
