U.S. lifts sanctions on Syria, renewing hope for Christians and boosting national economy

Meetings took place this week between the head of the transitional phase in Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and U.S. President Donald Trump, in the presence of the Saudi Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. / Credit: Syrian Arab Republic Presidency Facebook page

ACI MENA, May 15, 2025 / 17:33 pm (CNA).

In a surprising announcement made this week from Saudi Arabia, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the United States would fully lift its sanctions on Syria. The announcement sparked applause in the hall where Trump was speaking, echoed in the hearts of Syrians watching from afar with joy and hope.

The announcement was followed by a landmark meeting between Syria’s Transitional President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and Trump in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who joined via video conference.

Syrian currency strengthens

The first signs of impact were immediate, according to ACI MENA, CNA’s Arabic-language news partner. The Syrian pound immediately saw a notable improvement — rising by nearly 30% against the U.S. dollar. This financial shift, if sustained, could help curb inflation and ease the burden of securing daily necessities, especially food, in a country where many families struggle to afford three meals a day.

Revival of ‘free professions’ and small businesses

For decades, many Syrian Christians have relied on “free professions,” trade, and small industries as their primary sources of income. (Free professions involve work in which the individual works independently, such as a self-employed person, or working automously within a firm or company.)

Yet their efforts to build a stable life have often faced historical setbacks — from Ottoman-era restrictions to the nationalization policies of the late 1950s and 1960s, and later the Assad regime’s tight economic controls that led to escalating international sanctions starting in 1979, when Syria was designated a state sponsor of terrorism.

The lifting of sanctions now offers a significant economic opening, particularly if it is accompanied by internal economic reforms. Such a shift could reduce unemployment among Christians, boost purchasing power, and slow the migration trend that has deeply impacted Christian communities. Historically, economic hardship and compulsory military service — now reportedly abolished — have been major factors driving Christians to leave. Improved living conditions could also help strengthen national security and rebuild confidence in the country’s stability.

Toward reconstruction and investment

The widespread destruction caused by years of conflict has turned Syria into a potential hub for international investment. However, sanctions and monopolistic control by Assad-linked networks have long deterred investors.

Now, with the sanctions lifted, Syria is expected to witness significant economic revival, bolstered by the entry of major Arab and international companies. There is also speculation that this U.S. move may encourage the European Union to follow suit, which could further revitalize critical sectors such as electricity, water, energy, and public services.

On the ecclesial level, church communities are expected to become more active, particularly in the areas of health care and education — fields where Christians have long played a leading role. This could translate into meaningful advancements in these sectors, benefiting the wider Syrian society.

This story was first published by ACI MENA, CNA’s Arabic-language news partner, and has been translated for and adapted by CNA.