Background and Relevance of Key Figures
President Donald Trump has formally lifted the majority of US sanctions against Syria, aiming to reintegrate the war-torn country into the global economy. This decision comes after requests from Arabia Saudita and Turkey, following the end of half a century of Al Assad family rule by ex-rebel Ahmed al Sharaa.
Who is Ahmed al Sharaa?
Ahmed al Sharaa is a former Syrian diplomat who served as the Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2009 to 2012. He played a crucial role in negotiations with international communities and was part of the Syrian delegation during the Arab League’s efforts to end the violence in Syria. His recent involvement in ending the Al Assad regime’s rule has positioned him as a key figure in Syria’s political transition.
Why are Arabia Saudita and Turkey involved?
Arabia Saudita and Turkey have strategic interests in the Middle East, including countering Iran’s influence and promoting stability in the region. By supporting the removal of sanctions on Syria, both countries aim to reshape the geopolitical landscape and potentially create new alliances.
Lifting of Sanctions and Their Implications
Trump’s executive order terminated the “national emergency” established in 2004, which had sanctioned most state institutions, including the central bank. This move aims to end Syria’s financial isolation and pave the way for global trade and foreign investments.
- Brad Smith, a Treasury Department official, stated that the lifting of sanctions will allow Syria to rejoin the international financial system, facilitating global commerce and attracting investments from neighboring countries as well as the United States.
- The decree acknowledges positive measures taken by Syria since the fall of President Bashar al Assad, while maintaining sanctions against former government members, including al Assad himself, who fled to Russia late last year.
- Syria recently conducted its first electronic transfer through the international banking system since the civil war began in 2011.
- Israel has been cautious about the new developments, having previously targeted Syria’s military bases following al Assad’s downfall and initially being skeptical of al Sharaa due to his past links with Al Qaeda.
- Israel expressed interest in normalizing relations with Syria and Lebanon, expanding upon the so-called “Abraham Accords,” which could significantly transform the Middle East.
- Iran’s influence in Syria and Lebanon has diminished due to Israeli military operations following a brutal Hamas attack in Israel on October 7, 2023. Intense Israeli attacks against Iran in June are said to have created an “unprecedented window” for change, according to Tom Barrack, the US ambassador to Turkey.
Recent Violence Against Minorities in Syria
Since the fall of al Assad, Syria has witnessed a series of attacks targeting minorities. On June 22, at least 25 people were killed and dozens injured in a suspected Islamist attack on an Orthodox church in Damascus.
