Trump and Al-Sharaa Discuss Lifting Remaining Syria Sanctions

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and U.S. President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on May 31, 2026, to discuss Syria's economic recovery, reconstruction, and regional stability. President al-Sharaa stated that the removal of all remaining U.S. sanctions is essential for reviving the national economy and attracting foreign investment.

While the United States has already dismantled much of its sanctions regime and repealed the Caesar Act, Washington continues to maintain targeted sanctions against former President Bashar al-Assad, his associates, human rights abusers, and captagon traffickers. The U.S. government is also currently reviewing Syria's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, a status that continues to limit financial transactions and foreign assistance.

President Trump emphasized the importance of diplomacy and dialogue to prevent regional escalation during the call. The discussions occur as Saudi Arabian firms and other Gulf states have pledged multi-billion-dollar investments and financial assistance to support the stability of Syria's new government and its reintegration into the international community.