The U.S. President Donald Trump announced his decision to lift all sanctions on Syria, declaring it a step toward giving the country what he called a “chance at greatness.” The announcement was made during his address at an investment forum in Riyadh, the first stop of his three-nation tour of the Middle East, which also includes Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Speaking at the forum, Trump said, “I will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria in order to give them a chance at greatness.”
He emphasized that while sanctions had served a purpose, it was now time for Syria to move forward. Trump is also scheduled to meet Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh on Wednesday, marking a significant diplomatic gesture.
A White House statement confirmed the meeting, saying, “The President agreed to greet the Syrian President while in Saudi Arabia tomorrow.”
In Riyadh, President Trump also signed a major agreement with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, securing a $600 billion investment commitment. The deal is seen as a cornerstone of U.S.-Saudi economic cooperation and a boost for American strategic interests in the region.
In his speech at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Conference, Trump also addressed Iran, urging its leadership to choose a “new and better path” forward. He reiterated his preference for diplomacy over confrontation but warned of consequences if aggression continues.
“As I have shown repeatedly, I am willing to end past conflicts and forge new partnerships for a better and more stable world, even if our differences may be very profound,” Trump said.
“If Iran’s leadership rejects this olive branch and continues to attack their neighbors, then we will have no choice but to inflict massive maximum pressure, drive Iranian oil exports to zero like I did before.”
President Trump’s tour is being closely watched as he seeks to reset U.S. foreign policy in the region by promoting economic partnerships, regional stability, and diplomatic engagement with key players in the Middle East.
Source: DW.com
