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Türkiye on Friday welcomed the United States' decision to lift economic sanctions against Syria, with regional powers expressing hope the move will facilitate reconstruction efforts as Washington formally ended restrictions imposed under the Caesar Act.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed the repeal into law as part of a $901 billion defense budget for 2026, formally ending sanctions that had been in place since 2019. The signing took place during a closed-door ceremony at the White House after the Senate approved the budget legislation.
Türkiye's Foreign Ministry spokesman Oncu Keceli stated on social media that Ankara hopes the step "will further encourage international cooperation for Syria's reconstruction and development, contributing to the strengthening of stability, security and prosperity in the country."
Jordan and Saudi Arabia quickly issued statements praising the sanctions repeal, framing it as essential for Syria's recovery. Jordan's Foreign Ministry described the decision as "an important step to support Syria's reconstruction efforts, strengthen the recovery process and meet the Syrian people's expectations for development and prosperity."
The Jordanian statement specifically acknowledged Trump's efforts in lifting the sanctions and said the move "confirms international will" regarding Syria's reconstruction. Jordan reiterated its position supporting Syria's unity, sovereignty, security, stability and territorial integrity throughout the rebuilding process.
Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry similarly welcomed the repeal, noting that lifting the sanctions aligns with Syrian expectations and supports stability and development in the country. The ministry congratulated the Syrian government and people on the sanctions removal and praised the Damascus administration's steps toward restoring order, revitalizing the country and economy, and enabling citizens to return to their homes.
The sanctions repeal comes as Syria operates under a new government established in March 2025 under President Ahmed Sara's leadership. Foreign investment and international aid are expected to flow back into the country now that the legal barriers have been removed.
The Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, passed by the US Congress in 2019, imposed broad economic sanctions targeting individuals and entities involved in Syria's conflict.
The law aimed to restrict Syria's access to international financial systems and penalize those conducting business with the Damascus government.
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