(MENAFN) U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on June 30 that lifts the majority of sanctions imposed on Syria, according to a White House statement.

The order removes sanctions on Syria but continues to target former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and certain individuals. It also allows for easing export controls on specific goods and suspends restrictions on some foreign aid to Syria.

As part of the move, five previous executive orders that established the existing Syria sanctions program were revoked immediately. Additionally, the State Department issued a 180-day waiver on sanctions under the Caesar Act.

The U.S. Treasury had already begun rolling back sanctions by issuing a general license authorizing transactions with the interim Syrian government, its central bank, and state-owned enterprises.

Sanctions remain in place against Assad, his close associates, human rights violators, drug traffickers, those linked to chemical weapons, ISIS and related groups, and Iranian proxies, as confirmed by the White House Press Secretary.

The order directs Secretary of State Marco Rubio to explore opportunities for sanctions relief through the United Nations and to review Syria’s designation as a “State Sponsor of Terrorism,” the classification of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a foreign terrorist organization, and the designation of Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa as a “Specially Designated Global Terrorist.”

The administration plans to continue monitoring key priorities, including efforts to normalize relations with Israel and prevent ISIS’s resurgence.

In May, during discussions in Saudi Arabia, Trump informed al-Sharaa that the U.S. intended to lift sanctions and consider normalizing ties, marking a significant policy change.

Assad’s 54-year rule ended abruptly on December 8, 2024. Shortly after, HTS leaders, who spearheaded the offensive during Syria’s 13-year conflict, formed an interim government that has since been working to restore stability, rebuild institutions, and engage with regional and international partners.

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