In a dramatic shift that has surprised diplomats and analysts worldwide, U.S. President Donald Trump has moved from calling Syria’s leadership “terrorists” to describing the country’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, as an “attractive guy” with a “real shot” at bringing stability to Syria. This change in tone signals a major transformation in U.S. policy toward the war-torn nation, with potential consequences for the entire Middle East.
The Historic Meeting
On May 14, 2025, President Trump met with Syria’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This was the first meeting between American and Syrian heads of state in over 25 years. The encounter took place ahead of a summit with leaders from Gulf Arab countries, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who joined via video link.
During the meeting, Trump announced plans to lift all U.S. sanctions against Syria, a move he described as giving Syria “a new beginning” and “a chance at greatness”. The announcement was met with celebrations in Syria and approval from several Arab leaders.
Why the Sudden Change?
For years, the U.S. maintained strict sanctions on Syria, especially during the rule of Bashar al-Assad, who was ousted in December 2024 after a swift offensive by opposition forces led by al-Sharaa. These sanctions were meant to punish the Syrian government for its violent repression of protests and alleged human rights abuses.
Trump’s decision to lift sanctions came after discussions with regional leaders, particularly Saudi Arabia’s crown prince and Turkey’s president, both of whom supported the move.
Trump stated, “This is their moment to excel. We’re lifting all of them. Good luck Syria, show us something extraordinary”.
What Does Normalization Mean?
Normalization of relations means that the U.S. is now open to working with Syria’s new government. Trump urged al-Sharaa to:
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Expel groups labeled as terrorists, including some Palestinian factions.
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Support the Abraham Accords, which aim to improve relations between Arab countries and Israel.
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Take responsibility for detention centers holding ISIS fighters in northern Syria.
While these requests are ambitious, many experts believe they will be difficult for Syria to fulfill, especially establishing ties with Israel, given decades of hostility.
Impact on Syrians
The lifting of sanctions is expected to have a huge impact on ordinary Syrians. For more than a decade, U.S. restrictions barred nearly all trade with Syria, isolating its economy and worsening poverty. A recent United Nations report found that nine out of ten Syrians live in poverty, with the country’s economy at just a quarter of its pre-war size.
With sanctions gone, humanitarian organizations can operate more freely, and foreign investment may help rebuild the country’s shattered infrastructure. Many Syrians are now hopeful for a better future, though challenges remain immense.
A New Era or Just Optimism?
Trump’s U-turn has sparked debate. Supporters argue that engaging with Syria’s new leadership could help stabilize the region and reduce violence. They believe that giving Syria a chance to rebuild and participate in international affairs is better than continuing isolation and punishment.
Critics, however, worry that the new government’s Islamist background and past associations could create new risks. Some also question whether Syria will truly follow through on promises to fight terrorism and make peace with Israel.
What Does This Mean for the Middle East?
Trump’s shift on Syria could change the balance of power in the Middle East. If Syria can stabilize and rebuild, it may become a more active player in regional politics. The move could also encourage other countries to reconsider their stance toward Damascus, especially if the U.S. leads the way in normalization.
However, the road ahead is uncertain. The region’s history is filled with sudden changes and unexpected consequences. While Trump’s new approach offers hope, it also brings risks and challenges that will need careful management.
FInal Note
President Trump’s dramatic change in attitude-from labeling Syria’s leaders as “terrorists” to calling the new president an “attractive guy”-marks a turning point in U.S.-Syria relations. The decision to lift sanctions and seek normalization has given hope to millions of Syrians, but it also raises tough questions about the future of peace and stability in the Middle East. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but for now, the world is watching Syria’s next steps very closely.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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