In May 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department, under President Donald Trump, announced the easing of financial sanctions on Syria. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that this decision aims to foster stability and peace in Syria, paving the way for a brighter future for the nation.
President Trump's announcement was influenced by discussions with Turkey and Saudi Arabia, reflecting a desire to provide the Syrian government with an opportunity for progress. The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, issued a 180-day waiver of mandatory Caesar Act sanctions to facilitate stability-driving investments.
The easing of sanctions permits new investments and financial transactions within Syria, including trade in Syrian oil. However, transactions involving Russia, Iran, and North Korea remain excluded. The U.S. Treasury Department requires the Syrian government to ensure the safety of ethnic and religious minorities and to actively combat terrorist organizations for the waiver to remain in effect. The U.S. remains dedicated to supporting a stable and unified Syria that is at peace both internally and with its neighboring countries.