Washington announces its support for lifting the 'Caesar' sanctions on Syria through the Defense Authorization Act

The U.S. State Department announced its support for lifting the sanctions imposed on Syria under the 'Caesar Act' by including the lifting in the ongoing National Defense Authorization Act currently being discussed in Congress.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said in a written response to a question from Anadolu Agency that the administration 'supports lifting the Caesar Act, and Congress should include that in the National Defense Authorization Act,' noting that Washington 'welcomes any investment or participation in Syria that supports the opportunity for all Syrians to build a state characterized by peace and prosperity.'

The statement added that lifting the sanctions would help maintain the U.S. goal of ultimately eliminating the Islamic State organization and give Syrians 'a chance for a better future.'

Despite the broad exemptions, ending the strictest provisions of the Caesar Act requires legislation from Congress, which remains divided on this step, but a decision is expected before the end of the year.

Congress passed the law in December 2019 to impose sanctions on the Syrian regime at that time. However, the continued application of it after the change of power in Damascus has negatively impacted the Syrian economy, as it hinders transactions and investments in the energy, aviation, construction, and banking sectors.

Saudi companies are preparing to inject billions of dollars in investments to boost the recovery of the Syrian economy. Riyadh hosted a meeting in May between U.S. President Donald Trump and Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara, during which Trump announced his intention to lift all sanctions imposed on Damascus.