US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that lifts major sanctions on Syria on Monday. This move officially ends Syria’s isolation from the global financial system after years of civil war.

Trump Fulfills Promise to Help Syria Rebuild

This decision follows Trump’s earlier pledge in May to relax sanctions. Back then, he said he wanted to support Syria’s recovery from its devastating conflict.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the new policy is part of a larger goal. “It’s an action the president promised,” she said. Leavitt added that Trump aims for Syria to become “stable, unified, and at peace with itself and its neighbors,” according to the Associated Press. She also said, “This is another promise made and promise kept.”

Some Sanctions Still in Place

However, not all restrictions have been lifted. According to Reuters, the new order still targets several individuals and groups. Sanctions remain on former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, his inner circle, and others accused of human rights abuses, drug trafficking, chemical weapons use, and ties to ISIS and Iran-backed militias.

Major Shift in US Approach to Syria

In May, Trump met Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa during a visit to Saudi Arabia. During that meeting, he promised to ease sanctions and even said he would consider restarting diplomatic relations. This marked a significant shift in Washington’s approach to Syria.

The executive order also ends the national emergency that was declared in 2004. That declaration had led to broad sanctions, including a ban on dealing with Syria’s central bank and major institutions.

Syria Welcomes US Decision

Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani praised the move. He said it would “open the door to long-awaited reconstruction and development.”

Syria Still Labeled a State Sponsor of Terrorism

Despite the easing of sanctions, the US still classifies Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism. This label is unlikely to be lifted anytime soon. As a result, foreign companies and banks may still hesitate to invest in Syria.

Signs of Syria’s Return to the Global Economy

Even so, there are signs that Syria is beginning to rejoin the international financial system. Recently, the country completed its first electronic banking transaction through global systems since its civil war began in 2011.

Israel Shows Interest in Normalizing Ties

Meanwhile, Israel has also expressed willingness to normalize relations with Syria. This could signal further changes in regional diplomacy.