Trump raises sanctions: cheers in Syria - a historical moment!

Trump raises sanctions: cheers in Syria - a historical moment!

Damaskus, Syrien - President Donald Trump has announced today to lift sanctions against Syria, which in numerous cities in the country led to cheers and celebrations among his followers. In Damascus, the slogan "Make Syria Great Again" shone on a digital advertising table, an allusion to Trump's famous "Make America Great Again". There are even “Make Syria Great Again” caps on social media, and videos show happy people on the streets that celebrate the end of the sanctions. These sanctions have had serious negative effects on the Syrian economy since 2011, which is now hoping for a recovery.

On Wednesday, Trump met the Syrian transition president Ahmed al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, which is considered a historical event. This meeting has been the first between the presidents of both countries in 25 years and was an important turning point in diplomatic relationships. The last meeting took place in 1994 between Bill Clinton and Hafez al-Assad. Al-Sharaa, who previously worked as a military leader, leads a militia alliance with the aim of overthrowing Bashar al-Assad, and in the past had a reward of $ 10 million on his head due to his connections to al-Qaida. In January he was elected President after his organization, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, had taken control of Damascus.

diplomatic turn

Trump describes Al-Sharaa as a "great" and a "young, attractive man". During the meeting, which lasted around 33 minutes, Trump asked Al-Sharaa to recognize Israel. This is a significant challenge, since Syria and Israel have been in war since 1948. In the past, however, Al-Sharaa has shown openness to approach. The exact reactions of Al-Sharaas on Trump's demand are not yet known. Trump emphasized that the lifting of the sanctions for Syria represents an "chance of size" and described the previous measures as "crippling".

The lifting of the sanctions is not only welcomed in Syria, but also interpreted as a signal to Iran. In this step, Trump is supported by Saudi Arabian and Turkish leaders, especially Mohammed bin Salman and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who are committed to stabilizing the region. The decision of the US President could also lead to an increase in humanitarian aid and foreign investments in Syria, which is of great importance for the country.

A look into the future

Although the White House only announced in the run-up to the meeting with al-Sharaa that Trump would tell him "hello", the actual encounter shows the potential for a deeper diplomatic relationship between the USA and Syria. Trump also encouraged Al-Sharaa to sign Abraham agreements with Israel, which could mean additional significant progress in relationships between Syria and the USA if they are implemented.

Overall, the abolition of sanctions and the meeting with al-Sharaa is a significant change in US foreign policy towards Syria, which has been internationally isolated for years. While the signs appear optimistic, it remains to be seen how the political conditions develop and whether real cooperation between the two nations will be possible.

For more information, you can report the reporting of Exxpress.at , news.sky.com and sueddeutsche.de consult.