Overview
- Treasury moved to lift most commercial restrictions on Syria and suspend remaining measures under the Caesar Act after the closed‑door meeting, though permanent repeal still requires congressional action.
- Al‑Sharaa became the first Syrian president received at the White House, capping days in which the U.N. and the U.S. dropped terrorism designations; Britain also lifted sanctions and the EU signaled it will follow.
- U.S. officials say Syria is expected to formally join the U.S.‑led coalition against ISIS during the visit, while the White House declined to confirm the timing.
- Senators advanced a repeal of the Caesar Act through defense legislation as House Republicans pressed for conditions, with Brian Mast and Lindsey Graham expressing reservations or conditional support.
- Religious leaders and advocacy groups urged accountability and safeguards for minorities after reports of sectarian killings since Al‑Sharaa took power.