Seria(The COW News Digital)In a landmark diplomatic development, the United States and the United Nations Security Council have lifted sanctions on Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara’ and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, signaling a potential new phase in Syria’s international relations. The move comes ahead of a scheduled meeting between President al-Shara’ and US President Donald Trump next week.
According to international news agencies, the US Treasury Department on Friday removed the Syrian leader from its specially designated global terrorist list, previously linking him to al-Qaeda. Simultaneously, the UN Security Council cleared both al-Shara’ and Khattab from sanctions associated with ISIS and al-Qaeda.
The resolution, presented by the United States, received broad support from the international community, including Pakistan. During the vote at the UN, 14 member states supported the measure, none opposed it, while China abstained from voting. Pakistan’s backing played a pivotal role in ensuring consensus on the resolution.
Mike Waltz, the US Ambassador to the UN, welcomed the approval, stating that the Security Council’s decision sends a strong political signal. He highlighted that the removal of sanctions marks a recognition of Syria entering a “new era,” and emphasized that lifting restrictions from the President and Interior Minister could provide Syrian citizens with significant opportunities for progress and stability.
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmed, also praised the resolution, describing it as a step that, while offering substantial opportunities, comes with its share of challenges for Syria. He called it a constructive milestone in Syria’s journey toward rebuilding and international reintegration.
The decision is seen as a prelude to the upcoming meeting between President al-Shara’ and President Trump, which is expected to focus on regional security, reconstruction, and diplomatic cooperation. Analysts note that the removal of sanctions could pave the way for renewed international engagement with Syria, particularly in the fields of economic development and political stability.
While the move has been welcomed by key international stakeholders, observers caution that Syria still faces a complex set of domestic and regional challenges. Nevertheless, the lifting of sanctions represents a symbolic and strategic step toward reintegration of Syria into the global diplomatic framework.
