Sanctions are not merely a diplomatic tool; they are instruments of pressure that shape lives, economies, and political trajectories. For years, Syria has lived under the heavy weight of US-led sanctions. But now, a unique moment presents itself: an opportunity to recalibrate the international community’s stance, particularly the United States’, in light of the rise of a new Syrian government under President Ahmad Al-Sharaa.

While lifting sanctions on Syria remains a controversial move, especially given Washington’s historical reluctance to ease punitive measures without extensive evaluation, there are compelling reasons to consider such a shift. These are rooted not only in geopolitical pragmatism but also in the pressing humanitarian and strategic imperatives that now confront the region.

One of the most pragmatic arguments in favor of lifting sanctions is simple: the Al-Sharaa government is now a political reality. Just as the world has had to come to terms with complex regimes across the Middle East – many of which have elements of militia integration, contested legitimacy, or imperfect democracies – Syria’s current leadership deserves recognition if only to prevent further disintegration.

The notion that Syria can return to pre-conflict normalcy or undergo a complete democratic overhaul is a fantasy long abandoned by regional and international actors. The war has exhausted its population, decimated infrastructure, and fractured social cohesion. At this juncture, the cost of maintaining sanctions – which hurt ordinary Syrians more than elites – may outweigh their intended political leverage.

Perhaps the most transformative shift resulting from the new leadership is the noticeable reduction of Iranian influence in Damascus. For years, Iran’s deep entrenchment in Syria posed threats not only to Syrian sovereignty but also to the balance of power in the Levant. Tehran’s........

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