Rubio Shakes Up Syria Policy, Suspends Sanctions in Historic Move
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stepped into the spotlight on the world stage these past few days by announcing a suspension of sanctions imposed on Syria under the Caesar Act. This move, confirmed in Rubio’s post on X and reported by Enab Baladi, marks a dramatic shift in U.S. policy, aiming to support stability and peace in the region. According to the latest joint statement from the Department of the Treasury and Department of Commerce, most sanctions have been suspended for 180 days, exempting only those targeting financial or commercial transactions with Russia or Iran. This action closely followed an historic White House visit by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, the first such meeting ever, which signaled a strong diplomatic pivot in U.S.-Syrian relations.The State Department clarified that lifting sanctions is intended to help Syria rebuild its economy, restore ties with international partners, and foster prosperity while strengthening counterterrorism efforts. Rubio made clear that the United States now expects Damascus to take concrete steps to “turn the page on the past” and demonstrate a commitment to lasting peace. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shaibani confirmed the reopening of Syria’s diplomatic mission in the U.S. and called the move a new chapter in the countries’ relationship. As part of bilateral agreements, discussions have begun on integrating Kurdish fighters into Syria’s national army and on regional security, including steps toward a security arrangement with Israel.Major world powers responded quickly. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan joined trilateral talks to emphasize Syria’s territorial stability, while U.S. officials reaffirmed support for a unified and peaceful Syria. The suspension of sanctions is part of President Trump’s broader plan to promote stability and economic recovery in the Middle East.Amid these diplomatic developments, Marco Rubio has also faced scrutiny at home. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, raised concerns over a seven point five million dollar payment made directly to the government of Equatorial Guinea in exchange for accepting third country nationals removed from the United States. According to Shaheen’s letter, this highly unusual payment is the largest sum ever provided by the U.S. to Equatorial Guinea, a government widely cited for corruption and human rights abuses. Democratic leaders are pushing Rubio for answers on how the funds will be protected against corruption and human trafficking.Meanwhile, Rubio is expected to meet foreign ministers at the upcoming Group of Seven summit in Ontario, where discussions will center on global economic security, peace initiatives in Ukraine and Gaza, and strategic cooperation.Thank you for tuning in and remember to subscribe for all the latest updates. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.For more http://www.quietplease.aiGet the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI