Watan–The United States has revealed that it may ease sanctions on Syria if the Damascus government makes progress on several critical issues, including the release of American detainees, the matter of foreign fighters, and the elimination of chemical weapons.
This came from Tim Lenderking, Senior Official from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, during a seminar organized by the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations on Thursday.
Lenderking emphasized that while sanctions on Syria remain in place, there is room for flexibility:“If the transitional authority in Damascus shows genuine change, we are open to building trust,” he said.
He clarified that these are not overnight issues and affirmed that Washington is ready to engage with Syrian officials and understand their perspectives.
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U.S. Sets Conditions for Easing Sanctions on Syria Amid Ongoing Concerns
However, Lenderking acknowledged that implementing such agreements will be challenging and urged all parties to find a solution that prevents the resurgence of ISIS or similar terrorist organizations in Syria.
He reiterated the need to eliminate all chemical weapons and commit to non-aggression toward neighboring states. He also called for accountability regarding “atrocities” committed during clashes in Syria, including the March violence in Latakia.
Lenderking further demanded the removal of foreign fighters from government roles and said the U.S. is willing to re-engage with Damascus if credible progress is made in these areas.
“If the transitional authority takes verifiable steps in line with what we’ve outlined, we will consider easing sanctions. We want Syria to have a second chance,” he concluded.
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