Overview

• US President Donald Trump has formally announced the lifting of all sanctions on Syria, citing a desire to give the country a fresh start after years of conflict.
• Trump met with Syrian transitional president Ahmed al-Scharaa in Riyadh, marking the first high-level US-Syrian meeting in 25 years.
• Al-Scharaa, a former HTS leader who remains listed as a terrorist by US and EU authorities, praised the move as a pivotal step for Syria's recovery and stability.
• The US decision follows similar actions by France and the EU, which have begun easing sanctions in response to Syria's new transitional government.
• Experts caution that while the removal of sanctions is significant, rebuilding Syria's devastated economy and infrastructure will require substantial time and investment.