Trump Proposes Sanctions Relief for Syria in Exchange for Normalization with Israel

 

Trump Proposes Sanctions Relief for Syria in Exchange for Normalization with Israel

U.S. President Donald Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh on May 14, 2025, in a historical diplomatic step. It was the first high-level meeting between the two nations in more than 20 years. In exchange for Syria's promise to improve relations with Israel by accepting the Accords of Abraham, President Trump offered to ease long-standing U.S. sanctions on Syria.

Key Conditions Outlined by President Trump

President Trump outlined several requirements for the suggested sanctions lifting at the private meeting:

Syria's official recognition of Israel and ratification of the Abraham Accords constitute normalization with Israel.

The fight against terrorism measures include the return to their homes of people known as "Palestinian terrorists" and the expulsion of all foreign terrorist organizations from Syrian territory.

ISIS Detention Centers: Taking over the administration of ISIS detention centers currently run by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is backed by the United States.

Controlling the area and stopping the rise of extremist organizations are the goals of these actions.

Background on President Ahmed al-Sharaa

Formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Julani, Ahmed al-Sharaa gained fame as the head of the al-Qaeda-affiliated group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Bashar al-Assad was deposed by a coming out on top working led by HTS, in December 2024. Al-Sharaa pledged to run an inclusive government since coming to power and has started the task of holding national elections and revising the constitution.

Regional and International Reactions

Reactions to the projected rapprochement between Israel and Syria have been conflicting:

Israel: Showed cautious hope but is nonetheless cautious because of al-Sharaa's previous ties.

Gulf States: The proposal has received backing from Saudi Arabian and Turkish leaders who see it as a step toward regional stability.

International Community: Although some see the action as a practical step toward peace, others worry that it would legitimize a leader with a history of violence.

Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy

A potential change in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East is shown by President Trump's involvement with Syria. The United States hopes to foster positive reforms in Syria's internal governance and international relations by tying the easing of sanctions with particular terrorism and normalization efforts.

Conclusion

A major advancement in Middle Eastern diplomacy is the meeting between President Trump and President al-Sharaa. A new chapter in U.S.-Syria ties and increased regional stability could result from the proposed conditions if they are effective. However, navigating complicated political environments and historical tensions will be necessary for the future.