Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa
Syria welcomes end to US Caesar sanctions
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- US Congress permanently lifts Caesar sanctions on Syria.
- Damascus says the move opens the door to reconstruction.
- President Ahmed al-Sharaa thanks Washington for the decision.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on Friday welcomed the permanent removal of US sanctions imposed under the Caesar Act, describing the step as a turning point for a country devastated by more than a decade of war.
The decision, approved by the US Congress earlier this week, formally ends sanctions introduced during the rule of Bashar al-Assad, who was ousted in December last year. The measures had sharply limited foreign investment and effectively isolated Syria from the global banking system.
- Al-Sharaa addresses Syrians -
In a recorded video posted to his official X account, al-Sharaa framed the moment as historic.
“Today is the first day that Syria is without sanctions, thanks to God Almighty, and then to your efforts and patience for 14 years,” he said.
He also praised Washington’s role in finalizing the decision, saying, “I give my special thanks to (US) President Donald Trump... for responding to the call of the Syrian people, and to the members of Congress for recognising the sacrifices of the Syrian people.”
- Background to the sanctions -
The Caesar Act was named after a former military photographer who smuggled out images documenting torture and killings in Syrian prisons. The law was designed to pressure the Assad government by cutting access to international finance and deterring companies from doing business in Syria.
While President Trump had previously suspended enforcement of the sanctions on two occasions following requests from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, Damascus pushed for a full repeal. Syrian officials argued that temporary suspensions were not enough to reassure investors concerned about potential legal exposure in the United States.
- Focus on reconstruction -
Earlier on Friday, Syria’s foreign ministry issued a statement welcoming the move as “an entrance to the phase of reconstruction and development.” The ministry called on Syrians at home and abroad to take part in rebuilding the country’s economy and infrastructure.
