US Congress Repeals Caesar Act, Ends Sanctions on Syria

Policy Reset as Washington Opens Door for Syria’s Reconstruction

The United States Congress has taken a landmark decision by voting to permanently lift sanctions on Syria , imposed during the presidency of Bashar al-Assad . The move marks a significant shift in US foreign policy and signals improving ties with the new Syrian leadership under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa , more than a decade after the country descended into civil war.

Repeal of the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act
At the centre of the decision is the repeal of the Caesar Act of 2019 , one of the most stringent sanctions regimes applied to any country in recent years. The US Senate approved the repeal by a bipartisan vote of 77–20 , following earlier passage in the House of Representatives. The measure was included in a broader annual defence legislation and is expected to be signed into law by President Donald Trump , formally ending statutory sanctions on Syria.

From Temporary Waivers to Permanent Change
Earlier, President Trump had suspended enforcement of the Caesar Act twice, responding to diplomatic appeals from Saudi Arabia and Turkey , both of which maintain close ties with Syria’s new leadership. However, these waivers failed to reassure international investors, as sanctions remained embedded in US law. President al-Sharaa argued that only a full repeal could remove legal uncertainty and unlock economic engagement. Congress’s decision delivers that permanence.

Domestic and International Responses
The repeal drew support across party lines in Washington. Senator Jeanne Shaheen described it as essential for allowing Syrians to rebuild their country after prolonged conflict and humanitarian devastation. In Damascus, the decision was welcomed as a turning point, with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani stating that it opens pathways for cooperation and renewed global partnerships.

Implications for Syria’s Recovery
With sanctions lifted, Syria is expected to regain access to international banking, attract foreign investment and accelerate reconstruction. Originally designed to block rebuilding while Assad remained in power, the Caesar Act’s repeal reflects new geopolitical realities following the rise of the al-Sharaa government and Syria’s efforts to normalise relations with Western nations.

Exam-Focused Points

• The Caesar Act was enacted in 2019 to sanction Syria.

• The US Senate voted 77–20 to repeal the law.

• The Act restricted foreign investment and international banking access.

• Ahmad al-Sharaa became Syria’s interim president in 2024 .