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U.S. Moves to Lift U.N. Sanctions on Syria’s Leader Ahead of First-Ever White House Visit

Washington seeks U.N. sanctions relief for Ahmed al‑Sharaa, signaling a pivot to formal engagement.

Overview

  • The White House confirmed President Donald Trump will host Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa on Monday, the first visit by a Syrian head of state to the White House.
  • A U.S. draft U.N. Security Council resolution seen by Reuters would lift sanctions on al‑Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, with the timing of any vote not yet set.
  • U.N. sanctions committee travel exemptions granted to al‑Sharaa this year make the visit likely even if the Council does not act beforehand.
  • The U.S. revoked its unilateral Syria sanctions program in June, though individual designations and laws such as the Caesar Act remain in force.
  • Syrian officials say the meeting will focus on reconstruction and easing remaining penalties, and reports that Syria will join the U.S.-led anti‑ISIS coalition remain unconfirmed.