Prospects for Normalization: US-Syria Relations After the Trump-al-Sharaa Meeting

In a significant and unexpected development, US President Donald Trump met with Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in May 2025.1 This encounter marked the first high-level meeting between the leaders of the two nations in 25 years and signaled a potential shift in the long-standing adversarial relationship. Concurrent with this meeting, President Trump announced the lifting of US sanctions on Syria, a move intended to provide the country with a “fresh start” as it emerged from decades of international isolation and the aftermath of a protracted civil war.1 While this move generated optimism, the US laid out several conditions for full normalization, including Syria’s diplomatic recognition of Israel, the expulsion of foreign fighters from its territory, and sustained cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.1 Syria’s initial response was cautiously optimistic, acknowledging the significance of the sanctions relief while also highlighting the complexities involved in meeting all US demands, particularly regarding Israel.1 The meeting and the subsequent developments were significantly influenced by the roles of Saudi Arabia and Turkey, regional powers with their own strategic interests in Syria.1 This report analyzes the prospects and significance of this potential normalization, considering the historical context, the stated intentions of both nations, the involvement of regional actors, and the inherent challenges that lie ahead.

2. Background: US-Syria Relations Before the Meeting:

The relationship between the United States and Syria has been historically complex and often fraught with tension. A significant point of contention has been the US designation of Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism, a label that has been in place since 1979.1 This designation, along with other factors such as Syria’s involvement in regional conflicts and its human rights record, contributed to a deeply strained relationship. Following the onset of the Syrian Civil War in 2011 and the subsequent violent crackdown on protests by the Assad regime, the United States suspended its diplomatic relations with Syria in 2012.40 The US also actively supported the Syrian opposition, demanding the removal of Bashar al-Assad from power as a prerequisite for any political solution in the country.40 Over the years, the United States imposed a wide array of economic sanctions on Syria. These measures targeted not only the Assad regime but also various entities and individuals involved in human rights abuses, support for terrorism, and the pursuit of weapons of mass destruction.1 These sanctions significantly impacted the Syrian economy and the daily lives of its citizens.

The long history of sanctions and the enduring “state sponsor of terror” designation cultivated a profound antagonism between the two nations. This deep-seated animosity makes any attempt at normalization a remarkable departure from decades of established US foreign policy. For over four decades, the United States has consistently viewed Syria through the prism of counter-terrorism and human rights concerns. This perspective has resulted in a complex web of legal and political obstacles that have historically hindered any improvement in bilateral relations. The sudden shift in US policy, marked by the Trump-al-Sharaa meeting and the lifting of sanctions, suggests a significant reassessment of strategic priorities or a recognition that the previous approach had reached its limitations.

3. The Landmark Meeting in Riyadh:

The meeting between US President Donald Trump and Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa took place on May 14, 2025, in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.1 This event holds immense historical significance as it represented the first high-level interaction between the United States and Syria in 25 years.1 The last such encounter occurred in 2000 when then-US President Bill Clinton met with Syrian President Hafez al-Assad in Geneva. The Trump-al-Sharaa meeting was conducted behind closed doors, with the White House later indicating that it lasted for just over 30 minutes to 37 minutes.1 Adding to the diplomatic weight of the occasion was the presence and active involvement of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who physically attended the meeting, and Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who joined the discussion via telephone.1 Following the meeting, President Trump offered positive remarks about Ahmed al-Sharaa, describing him to reporters as a “young, attractive guy. Tough guy. Strong past. Very strong past. Fighter”.1 These comments were particularly noteworthy given al-Sharaa’s past ties to al-Qaeda and his leadership of insurgents who had previously battled US forces in Iraq before becoming a prominent figure in the Syrian war.

President Trump’s description of Ahmed al-Sharaa, despite his well-documented history with extremist groups, reveals a pragmatic and transactional approach to this diplomatic engagement. By focusing on the perceived present capabilities and future potential of the Syrian leader, rather than dwelling on his past affiliations, Trump signaled a prioritization of the current strategic opportunity. This personal endorsement from the President of the United States carries significant weight in shaping the international narrative surrounding the new Syrian leadership and suggests a willingness to overlook past grievances for potential future cooperation.

4. Trump’s Decision to Lift Sanctions:

In conjunction with the meeting, President Trump announced his decision to end the long-standing US sanctions against Syria.1 Trump stated that this action was intended to provide Syria with a “fresh start” and an opportunity for “greatness,” acknowledging that the sanctions had been “really crippling, very powerful”.1 This decision was reportedly influenced by appeals from leaders in the Gulf region, as well as from Turkish President Erdogan.1 The announcement was met with immediate and widespread positive reactions within Syria. Celebrations erupted in the streets, and the Syrian pound experienced a notable strengthening against the US dollar.2 This immediate response underscores the significant economic hardship that the sanctions had imposed on the Syrian population. While President Trump announced the cessation of sanctions, the process of fully lifting these restrictions is expected to be complex and potentially lengthy.2 The US sanctions regime on Syria comprises a multi-layered web of executive orders, legislative acts, and terrorism-related designations, each with its own set of requirements for removal.

The speed and intensity of the celebrations across Syria following the announcement of sanctions relief vividly illustrate the devastating impact these measures had on the lives of ordinary Syrians. With reports indicating that a staggering 90% of the population was living in poverty 5, the sanctions had clearly exacted a heavy humanitarian toll, contributing to shortages of essential goods and hindering reconstruction efforts. The immediate surge in optimism and the strengthening of the Syrian currency suggest that the Syrian people view the lifting of sanctions as a critical turning point, offering a tangible prospect for economic recovery and a more hopeful future.

Furthermore, the varying degrees of difficulty associated with removing different types of sanctions point towards a normalization process that is likely to be phased rather than instantaneous. Sanctions imposed through executive orders can be rescinded relatively easily by the President. However, those sanctions that have been codified into US law by Congress, such as the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, require legislative action to be repealed or amended. Additionally, the designation of Syria as a State Sponsor of Terrorism carries its own significant legal and political implications that make its removal a complex and potentially contentious process.2 This multi-faceted nature of the sanctions regime suggests that the path to full normalization will necessitate sustained commitment and could face hurdles in both the executive and legislative branches of the US government.

5. US Conditions for Full Normalization:

During his meeting with President al-Sharaa, President Trump articulated several key conditions that Syria would need to meet for the United States to fully normalize relations. A primary demand was for Syria to take concrete steps towards diplomatic recognition of Israel, potentially by signing onto the Abraham Accords, a series of normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab nations brokered by the Trump administration during his first term.1 The US also insisted on the complete expulsion of all foreign terrorist fighters from Syrian territory.1 Furthermore, the United States emphasized the need for ongoing and robust cooperation with Syria in efforts to prevent a resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS) group.1 Finally, President Trump requested that the Syrian government assume full responsibility for the numerous detention centers located in northeast Syria that currently hold thousands of suspected ISIS members.1

The strong emphasis placed on Syria’s recognition of Israel as a precondition for full normalization underscores the significant priority that this issue holds for the United States. This demand is likely intertwined with President Trump’s broader Middle East policy objectives and his administration’s previous success in establishing the Abraham Accords. By linking the complete lifting of sanctions to Syria joining these accords, the US signals its intent to leverage this opportunity to further reshape the regional political landscape and potentially isolate Iran, a long-time adversary of both the US and Israel.

The demand for the expulsion of foreign fighters from Syria reflects a clear recognition of the complex and volatile security environment that persists within the country. Over years of conflict, Syria has become a haven for numerous militant groups, including a significant number of foreign nationals, some of whom have maintained ties to internationally designated terrorist organizations. The US demand highlights concerns about regional stability and the potential for these fighters to pose future security threats both within Syria and beyond its borders. However, the practical implementation of this demand presents a considerable challenge for the new Syrian government, given the intricate web of alliances and the potential for resistance from these well-entrenched groups.

6. Syria’s Response and Stance:

Following the landmark meeting and President Trump’s announcement, Syria offered an initial response that indicated a cautious yet optimistic outlook. President Ahmed al-Sharaa himself described President Trump’s decision to lift sanctions as a “courageous” and “brave” move.3 Similarly, the Syrian Foreign Ministry issued statements welcoming the potential cessation of the long-standing US sanctions.1 Regarding the contentious issue of normalizing relations with Israel, Syrian officials have hinted at a potential willingness to consider such a step, but consistently emphasize that this would be contingent upon achieving the “right conditions”.5 A significant obstacle in this regard remains Syria’s firm stance that it cannot join the Abraham Accords while Israel continues to occupy Syrian territory, specifically the Golan Heights, which Israel annexed in 1981.28 Despite this public position, there have been reports suggesting that Syria has begun taking some initial steps to address specific US concerns. For instance, Syrian authorities have reportedly detained members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a move seen as potentially responsive to US demands to curtail the activities of certain militant groups.14 On the issue of foreign fighters, Syria’s response has been more nuanced. While acknowledging the US demand for their expulsion, Syrian officials have indicated a willingness to engage in further discussions on this complex matter but have refrained from providing definitive commitments or timelines.12

President al-Sharaa’s initial positive reaction to the lifting of sanctions clearly signals a strong desire for normalization with the United States, driven in large part by the urgent need for economic recovery in Syria. However, the consistent conditionality attached to the prospect of normalizing relations with Israel, particularly concerning the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, represents a significant potential point of contention. This long-standing territorial dispute has been a major source of conflict between Syria and Israel for decades, and any progress towards normalization will likely hinge on finding a mutually acceptable resolution to this complex issue.

Furthermore, while Syria’s reported actions, such as the detention of Palestinian militants, demonstrate a willingness to engage with the specific concerns raised by the United States, the more cautious and less definitive response regarding the expulsion of foreign fighters highlights the inherent complexities and sensitivities surrounding this particular demand for the new Syrian government. The presence of numerous foreign fighters within the ranks of the rebel groups that now form the core of the new Syrian army presents a delicate internal challenge. A swift and complete expulsion could potentially destabilize the fragile power dynamics within the country. Therefore, Syria may be seeking a more gradual and carefully managed approach to this issue, perhaps exploring options for integrating some of these fighters into the national security apparatus rather than outright expulsion.

7. The Role of Regional Powers:

The unfolding developments in US-Syria relations have been significantly shaped by the active involvement of key regional powers. Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in facilitating the meeting between President Trump and President al-Sharaa in Riyadh.1 Both Saudi Arabia and Turkey had previously advocated for the United States to ease the sanctions imposed on Syria, recognizing the urgent need for economic relief and stability in the country.1 These regional actors reportedly view the new Syrian government under al-Sharaa as a potential counterbalance to the influence of Iran in the region, a shared strategic objective with the United States.1 Turkey, in particular, has been a long-standing supporter of Ahmed al-Sharaa and the rebel factions he led, providing crucial backing throughout the Syrian conflict.1 In contrast, Israel has maintained a position of skepticism towards al-Sharaa, primarily due to his past affiliations with extremist groups, and has expressed concerns regarding potential security threats emanating from its northern border with Syria.1

The proactive involvement of Saudi Arabia in facilitating the high-level meeting between the US and Syria, coupled with its support for easing sanctions, strongly suggests a growing regional consensus, further bolstered by Turkey’s long-standing backing of al-Sharaa. This alignment among key regional powers indicates a shared strategic understanding, potentially driven by a common interest in countering the influence of Iran in Syria and the broader Middle East. Saudi Arabia’s willingness to broker this engagement and advocate for sanctions relief points towards a strategic alignment with the US on the need to engage with the new Syrian government to achieve these shared objectives.

Conversely, Israel’s continued apprehension regarding the new Syrian leadership, stemming from concerns about al-Sharaa’s past and potential security implications, presents a significant challenge to the prospects of full normalization. As a key US ally in the region, Israel’s reservations will likely need to be carefully considered by the United States as it navigates its evolving policy towards Syria. This divergence in perspectives between the US and Israel could potentially create obstacles and complexities in the normalization process, requiring careful diplomatic maneuvering to address Israel’s security concerns while pursuing broader strategic goals in the region.

8. Challenges and Obstacles to Normalization:

Despite the initial positive momentum generated by the Trump-al-Sharaa meeting and the lifting of sanctions, the path towards full normalization between the United States and Syria is fraught with numerous challenges and potential obstacles. The historical tensions and the deep scars left by the protracted Syrian Civil War continue to cast a long shadow over bilateral relations.1 The complex regional geopolitical landscape, characterized by competing interests and long-standing rivalries, further complicates the normalization process.2 Israel’s continued military activity within Syria, often targeting what it perceives as threats, could also undermine progress towards normalization by fueling resentment and instability.2 A significant hurdle remains the presence of numerous foreign fighters within Syria and the imperative for the new government to effectively address counter-terrorism concerns, a key demand from the United States.1 Perhaps the most significant obstacle is the deeply sensitive issue of Syria fully normalizing relations with Israel, particularly in light of Israel’s continued occupation of the Golan Heights, a territory Syria considers its own.1 Finally, there is the potential for opposition within the US administration and Congress to fully embrace normalization with a government led by a former figure with a history in terrorist organizations.2

The continued Israeli airstrikes within Syria present a significant impediment to the normalization process. While Israel asserts that these actions are necessary to address immediate security threats, they are perceived by Syria as violations of its sovereignty and could easily inflame tensions, making it considerably more challenging for President al-Sharaa to accede to US demands, particularly those related to normalizing relations with Israel. These ongoing military activities risk undermining any goodwill generated by the lifting of sanctions and could potentially derail the fragile progress towards a more stable relationship.

Furthermore, the internal situation within Syria presents its own set of complex challenges. The need for the new government to establish inclusive governance structures that genuinely represent the diverse ethnic and religious groups within the country is paramount for achieving long-term stability and gaining broader international acceptance. However, for a government whose leadership emerged from a predominantly Sunni Arab rebel movement with a jihadist background, demonstrating genuine inclusivity and addressing the legitimate concerns of minorities, such as Alawites and Druze, will be a significant undertaking. The ability of President al-Sharaa’s government to build trust across these diverse communities and to effectively prevent sectarian violence will be a critical factor in the success of the normalization process.

9. Impact of Lifting Sanctions on Syria:

The decision by the United States to lift sanctions on Syria holds the potential for a significant and far-reaching impact on the country, particularly in the realm of its severely weakened economy. The removal of these long-standing economic restrictions could pave the way for a much-needed economic revival, potentially leading to the unfreezing of Syrian assets held abroad, attracting foreign investment into key sectors, and facilitating a substantial increase in international trade.2 It is anticipated that the easing of sanctions will lead to an improved flow of essential goods, including medicine and technology, which have been severely restricted under the sanctions regime.2 This could, in turn, stimulate job creation within Syria and help to alleviate the significant inflationary pressures that have plagued the economy.2 The lifting of sanctions is also expected to provide a crucial impetus for reconstruction efforts to begin in earnest across the country, which has suffered widespread destruction as a result of years of conflict.2 Furthermore, a potential long-term benefit of improved economic conditions could be the voluntary return of some of the millions of Syrian refugees who have been displaced by the conflict and are currently residing in neighboring countries.5

The lifting of sanctions represents a vital opportunity to inject much-needed resources into Syria’s devastated economy. Years of conflict and stringent economic restrictions have left the country in a state of severe hardship, with widespread poverty and a lack of access to basic necessities. The potential for the unfreezing of international assets and the influx of foreign investment could provide the financial foundation necessary for rebuilding critical infrastructure, revitalizing industries, and creating employment opportunities. This economic revitalization holds the promise of significantly improving the daily lives of ordinary Syrians who have endured immense suffering.

However, while the lifting of sanctions is undoubtedly a positive and necessary step, the actual realization of its full economic benefits will depend on several crucial factors. The extent and speed at which the various layers of sanctions are removed will be critical in determining the tangible impact on the ground. Furthermore, the Syrian government will need to implement comprehensive internal economic reforms aimed at improving the business environment, enhancing financial transparency, and fostering sustainable development across various sectors. Without these complementary reforms, the mere removal of sanctions may not be sufficient to unlock the full potential for long-term economic growth and integration into the global economy.

10. Future Prospects and Implications:

The normalization of relations between the United States and Syria, if fully realized, carries the potential to bring about a significant shift in the balance of power in the Middle East.2 Some analysts suggest that this development could potentially end Israel’s pursuit of further integration into the region on its own terms.2 However, there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the long-term commitment of the United States to this new policy direction, particularly given the complex political landscape within the US.2 The normalization process will also have implications for the ongoing fight against ISIS and other terrorist groups operating in the region.1 Furthermore, it is expected to have a notable impact on Iran’s influence in Syria and the wider Middle East, potentially reshaping regional alliances and strategic alignments.1 The potential for a full American military withdrawal from Syria is also a significant consideration linked to the normalization process.1

The move towards normalization between the US and Syria has the potential to fundamentally alter the existing regional dynamics, possibly leading to a significant realignment of alliances and a shift in the influence of key regional actors such as Iran and Israel. A rapprochement between the US and Syria could weaken Iran’s established presence and influence within Syria, potentially leading to a new security framework for the region. However, the realization of this potential hinges on several critical factors, including Syria’s demonstrated willingness and ability to meet the specific conditions set forth by the United States, as well as the reactions and strategic calculations of other influential regional players.

The future of the US military presence in Syria is also inextricably linked to the ongoing normalization process and, crucially, to Syria’s capacity to effectively address the security concerns articulated by the United States. President Trump has previously expressed a desire for a complete withdrawal of American military forces from Syria. A successful normalization process, wherein Syria assumes greater responsibility for maintaining security within its borders and effectively countering the threat of ISIS and other extremist groups, could potentially expedite this withdrawal. However, the timeline and feasibility of such a withdrawal will ultimately depend on Syria’s demonstrated ability to maintain stability and prevent the resurgence of terrorism in the region.

11. Conclusion:

The meeting between President Trump and President al-Sharaa in May 2025 represents a potentially pivotal moment in the long and often contentious history of US-Syria relations. President Trump’s subsequent decision to lift sanctions on Syria offers a glimmer of hope for a nation ravaged by years of conflict and economic hardship. However, the path to full normalization is complex and contingent upon Syria meeting several significant conditions set by the United States, most notably regarding the recognition of Israel, the expulsion of foreign fighters, and sustained counter-terrorism cooperation. While Syria has offered some initial positive responses and taken preliminary steps to address US concerns, substantial challenges remain, particularly concerning the deeply sensitive issue of normalizing relations with Israel while the Golan Heights remain under Israeli occupation. The active involvement of regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Turkey has played a crucial role in facilitating this initial engagement, driven by their own strategic interests in the region. Conversely, Israel’s continued skepticism underscores the delicate balancing act the US must perform to reconcile its own strategic objectives with the security concerns of a key ally. The lifting of sanctions holds immense potential for Syria’s economic recovery and the improvement of the lives of its citizens, but the actual impact will depend on the thoroughness of implementation and Syria’s commitment to internal reforms. Ultimately, the full normalization of US-Syria relations could lead to a significant reshaping of the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape, but its realization will require sustained commitment, careful diplomacy, and a willingness from both sides to navigate the complex and deeply rooted challenges that lie ahead.

Key Valuable Tables:

Table 1: Timeline of Key Events in US-Syria Relations (Post-2024)

Table 2: US Conditions for Normalization and Syria’s Response

Table 3: Potential Economic Impacts of Lifting US Sanctions on Syria