United States President Donald Trump announced the lifting of all sanctions on Syria, marking a major shift in US foreign policy. The decision follows consultations with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and comes after promising changes in Syria's leadership.

At the Saudi-US Investment Forum, Trump confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Syria’s new foreign minister, initiating formal diplomatic dialogue. Trump expressed optimism, stating, “There is a new government that will hopefully succeed,” acknowledging Syria's years of conflict and suffering.

The move was welcomed by the United Nations, with spokesperson Stephane Dujarric calling it “a positive development” that will boost Syria’s reconstruction and attract broader investment. Syria's Foreign Ministry hailed the sanctions lift as a “pivotal turning point,” emphasizing its potential for stability and self-sufficiency.

Trump also met Syria's Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Riyadh, the first such meeting in 25 years. Al-Sharaa, who led a 2024 military rebellion against Bashar al-Assad, expressed readiness to build a relationship with the US based on mutual respect and shared interests.

During the Gulf Cooperation Council summit, Trump reiterated that lifting the sanctions offers Syria “a fresh start” and a chance for greatness, despite acknowledging the challenges ahead. He urged Al-Sharaa to expel foreign and Palestinian terrorists from Syria, take responsibility for Islamic State detention centers, and sign the Abraham Accords to foster regional peace.

Al-Sharaa welcomed American investment, particularly in Syria’s oil and gas sectors, envisioning Syria as a key trade link between East and West. Trump underscored the historic opportunity for Syria to rebuild and re-engage with the international community.