In a significant diplomatic development, the United Nations Security Council has unanimously voted to lift sanctions on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab. This decision comes just days before President Sharaa is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House. The US-drafted resolution, which received 14 votes in favor with China abstaining, marks a pivotal shift in international relations with Syria. President Trump, who announced a policy change in May to ease sanctions on Syria, praised Sharaa’s leadership, stating, ‘He’s doing a very good job in a tough neighborhood.’ The lifting of sanctions aims to provide Syria with an opportunity to rebuild after 13 years of civil war. Syria’s UN Ambassador Ibrahim Olabi hailed the decision as a ‘message of support for Syrian women and men in their effort to rebuild their homeland.’ The resolution also addresses concerns about terrorism, emphasizing Syria’s commitment to combating foreign terrorist fighters, including the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM). Russia, a long-time ally of Syria, supported the resolution, reflecting the interests of the Syrian people. This move signals a potential new chapter in Syria’s reconstruction and international engagement.
UN lifts sanctions on Syria’s president ahead of his White House meeting with Trump
