On June 30, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order that terminates the sanctions program against Syria. The Order aims to support Syria’s path to stability and peace while maintaining sanctions on key individuals and groups, including Bashar al-Assad and those involved in terrorism and human rights abuses. It also directs the Secretary of State to evaluate potential suspensions of sanctions and to explore avenues for sanctions relief at the United Nations.

The administration emphasizes its commitment to a unified and stable Syria, balancing support for the country’s rebuilding efforts with the safeguarding of U.S. interests. President Trump has indicated that while the lifting of sanctions is intended to provide Syria with an opportunity for improvement, it will not come at the expense of ongoing threats in the region, particularly from ISIS and foreign terrorist organizations. The U.S. will continue to monitor the situation closely and hold accountable those responsible for past atrocities.

This policy shift follows the President’s earlier commitment to lift sanctions, which he described as ‘brutal and crippling,’ to provide Syria with a renewed opportunity for success. The Treasury Department has taken steps to facilitate this change by issuing licenses for transactions involving the interim Syrian government. Through this action, the administration aims to foster peace and stability in the Middle East while supporting the efforts of Syria’s new government to stabilize the country and counter extremism.

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