The Inside Story Podcast What's the impact of the US lifting its sanctions on Syria?
May 14, 2025
In this insightful discussion, guests Sinan Hatahet, a Non-Resident Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Syria Project, and Omar Alshogre, Director of Detainee Affairs at the Syrian Emergency Task Force and a Syrian refugee, analyze the U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria. They delve into the complexities of rebuilding a battered nation, the hopes of its citizens for economic revival, and the challenging path of transitional justice for victims of the civil war. Both highlight the need for caution amid optimism about future changes.
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Economic Hope from Sanctions Lift
- Lifting sanctions is seen as a hope for economic relief including jobs and cheaper products for Syrians.
- Reconstruction of infrastructure like electricity is a key public expectation after sanctions removal.
Diaspora Benefits from Sanctions Lift
- Lifting sanctions may improve everyday life, e.g., sending money directly to Syria becomes easier.
- The easing of sanctions is a positive, yet gradual process for the Syrian diaspora and citizens.
Address Detainee Justice Urgently
- Syrian government must address unresolved detainee cases to support healing and justice.
- Families need truth about missing detainees before they can move on emotionally.