Overview

• President Trump formally announced the lifting of longstanding U.S. sanctions on Syria, marking a significant step toward broader Middle East peace negotiations.
• Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, the first U.S.-Syria presidential meeting in 25 years, as part of his diplomatic tour through Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
• Rep. Jim Himes, a Democrat and ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, praised Trump for helping to de-escalate tensions between Israel and Iran, which had been at risk of conflict.
• Himes highlighted concerns over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's aggressive stance toward Iran but credited Trump's diplomacy with fostering restraint and dialogue.
• The U.S. is positioning itself as a mediator in renewed Middle East peace efforts, with follow-up negotiations and regional responses now being prepared.