Washington wants to lift Caesar Act sanctions as Trump prepares for meeting with Syrian president

(Patria) - The administration of President Donald Trump is pressuring Congress to fully lift sanctions on Syria imposed by the Caesar Act, a State Department official told Al Arabiya.

Trump ordered the lifting of sanctions against Syria during his visit to Saudi Arabia in May.

However, the sanctions imposed by the Caesar Act were codified into U.S. law with
overwhelming bipartisan support during Bashar al-Assad's rule over Syria.

Now, with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visiting the White House later this month, the Trump administration is redoubling efforts to lift the sanctions.

"Lifting sanctions on Syria preserves the integrity of our primary goal – the enduring defeat of ISIS – and will give the people of Syria a chance for a better future," a State Department spokesperson told Al Arabiya.

Several lawmakers strongly oppose the move, citing crimes against minorities in Syria and the past of al-Sharaa, whom the United States previously designated as a terrorist.

Other members of Congress, including defenders of the Netanyahu government, have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of lifting sanctions.

According to State Department officials, the administration wants Congress to include the lifting in the upcoming National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Several foreign countries have expressed interest in investing in Syria and supporting efforts to rebuild the war-torn country. However, U.S. sanctions continue to deter companies, investors, and states from engaging.

"The United States is in regular communication with regional partners and
welcomes any investment or engagement in Syria that supports the chance for all Syrians to have a peaceful and prosperous country," the State Department official added.