1 week Ago
Lifting Sanctions on Syria Sparks Debate
Trump met with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led a successful rebellion against Bashar al-Assad. Once aligned with extremist groups and previously targeted by a $10 million US bounty, al-Sharaa now heads Syria's transitional government. Trump expressed belief that al-Sharaa could help unify the nation and alleviate its humanitarian crisis.
The sanctions decision, reportedly encouraged by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, reflects a growing regional consensus to prevent Syria from slipping further into chaos. Trump also hopes Syria will eventually recognize Israel—a move that could signal a dramatic shift in the region.
Despite the risks, the move has received rare bipartisan praise. Former US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta called the decision a smart bet, noting al-Sharaa's leadership potential. Still, lawmakers are pressing for evidence that Syria's new government is cracking down on ISIS and protecting minorities before agreeing to further support.
Wider Regional Shifts: Iran, Gaza, and Israel Tensions
Trump also used the trip to increase pressure on Iran to accept restrictions on its nuclear program, warning of military consequences while avoiding escalation. Meanwhile, he has been engaging with Qatari and Saudi officials to address the humanitarian disaster in Gaza.
Tensions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are growing. Netanyahu criticized Trump's approach, particularly over Gaza ceasefire talks that excluded Israel and a separate US-Yemen agreement that bypassed Israeli involvement. Trump also moved unilaterally to secure the release of the last American hostage held in Gaza.
Although the US-Israel alliance remains intact, disagreements over Syria, Gaza, and broader strategy are becoming more evident.
Syria Gamble Overshadows Unrealized Peace Summit
Trump's plan to cap the trip with a high-profile photo-op in Turkey alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky fell apart when both leaders declined to attend. The failed summit added to doubts about Trump's broader peace efforts.
Still, his Syria move stands as one of the most daring foreign policy decisions of his second term. If successful, it could bring a fragile nation back from the brink and shift power dynamics across the Middle East. But the path forward depends on swift action, regional cooperation, and strong oversight from US lawmakers.
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