The Lifting of US Sanctions Against Syria: What It Means for Syrian Christians
On Tuesday 13 May, US President Donald Trump made a surprising announcement during his visit to Saudi Arabia – the lifting of economic sanctions against Syria. This move has been long-awaited by local churches, NGOs, and the Syrian people. Father George Sabé, a Marist priest in Aleppo, shares his cautious optimism about this development.
“This announcement came so quickly: we weren’t expecting it; we were surprised,” says Father Sabé. The lifting of US sanctions, which have been in place since the Al-Assad regime and have worsened with the onset of the war in 2011, is a cause for celebration for many Syrians. However, Father Sabé emphasizes the need for caution and vigilance. “It is a hope that is coming true,” he says, highlighting the importance of monitoring the situation closely.
While the easing of sanctions brings hope for rebuilding the country’s infrastructure, Father Sabé emphasizes the need for rebuilding relationships, forgiveness, and justice. The protection of minority religious communities and the respect for each community’s right to live in dignity are also key concerns. “We will continue to call for the application of justice and respect for each community to live in dignity, according to its own values,” Father Sabé affirms.
The lifting of sanctions comes after the US adopted a wait-and-see approach following the new government’s rise to power in December 2024. The move aligns the US with the positions of the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada. While a concrete timetable for the lifting of sanctions is yet to be announced, the cautious optimism of Syrian Christians like Father Sabé remains a guiding principle in navigating the path ahead.
As we look towards a future of rebuilding and reconciliation in Syria, let us remember the importance of vigilance and the protection of all communities’ rights to live in dignity.
