Syria teeters on the brink as the European Union lifts economic sanctions while ISIS shows signs of resurgence, prompting warnings of a potential civil war.
EU Lifts Sanctions Amidst Hope for Recovery
On May 20-21, 2025, the European Union officially lifted economic sanctions on Syria, a move intended to aid the nation’s recovery following the fall of the Assad regime. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated the EU aims to support the rebuilding of a new, inclusive, and peaceful Syria. However, sanctions on individuals linked to the Assad regime and human rights violations remain in place. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani welcomed the decision, expressing that it demonstrates an “international will to support Syria.”
Rubio’s Civil War Warning
Adding to the precarious situation, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned on May 20, 2025, that Syria could be just weeks away from a “full-scale civil war.” He defended President Trump’s decision to lift sanctions before meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, despite acknowledging that transitional authority figures “didn’t pass their background check with the FBI.” Rubio emphasized that engagement remains necessary.
ISIS Resurgence and Security Concerns
Adding another layer of complexity, recent events suggest a resurgence of ISIS activity within Syria. On May 18, 2025, a deadly blast in Al-Mayadeen, Deir az Zor countryside, killed at least three people and injured several others. Furthermore, on May 17, 2025, Syrian security forces conducted raids on ISIS cells in Aleppo, resulting in the deaths of three ISIS fighters and the arrest of four others. One security officer was killed during the operation, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by the terrorist group.
Trump Administration’s Policy Shift
In a significant policy shift, President Trump announced the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria and met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 13-14, 2025. This marked the first meeting between leaders of the two countries in 25 years. Trump expressed optimism that lifting sanctions would enable Syria to achieve “greatness.”
Background and Context
In December 2024, Syrian rebels ousted Bashar al-Assad after a 14-year civil war. The new transitional government is led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group led the offensive. Ahmed al-Sharaa was previously associated with al-Qaeda but cut ties in 2016.
Conclusion
As the EU lifts sanctions, the U.S. engages with the new Syrian government, and ISIS attempts to regain its footing, Syria stands at a crossroads. Rubio’s warning underscores the fragility of the situation, with the potential for renewed conflict looming large. The international community watches closely as Syria navigates this critical juncture.