US President Donald Trump has suggested his administration may explore normalizing relations with Syria, following a meeting with the country’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Riyadh. 

The encounter marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, as Sharaa was formerly linked to al-Qaeda and had a $10 million bounty on his head lifted only in December.

The 37-minute meeting, held at a Saudi royal palace, was attended by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and included Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan via phone. 

Trump later praised Sharaa as a “tough guy with a strong past” and acknowledged the role of Saudi and Turkish leaders in persuading him to lift U.S. sanctions on Syria.

Speaking at a U.S.-Saudi investment forum, Trump’s announcement was met with a standing ovation, reflecting a sharp reversal from his previous position that Washington had “no interest in Syria.” 

The move has sparked celebrations across Syria, where years of conflict have left 90% of the population in poverty.

However, normalization with Syria comes with conditions. Trump has stated that he expects Syria to join the Abraham Accords, a regional normalization effort involving Israel. 

Syrian officials have signaled openness to the idea, though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains cautious, urging Washington not to lift sanctions.

Experts warn that lifting restrictions will take time, as some sanctions can be waived immediately, but broader economic limitations require more extensive policy shifts.

Since assuming power in December, Sharaa has sought to rebrand himself as a leader for all Syrians, shedding his Islamist past and advocating for rebuilding the country. 

His government has expressed hopes that easing sanctions will attract foreign investment and humanitarian aid, helping Syria emerge from years of isolation.

With Washington now reassessing its stance, the future of Syria’s international reintegration depends on US strategic decisions and how regional powers influence developments.

SMS