Washington, D.C. - In a significant move marking a potential shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics, President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order that effectively terminates most of the US sanctions previously imposed on Syria. This decision, set to take effect from July 1, highlights a period of considerable change within the region and a step towards normalizing relations amid Syria’s political transition.

The sanctions, which had targeted numerous entities and individuals associated with the Assad regime, are being lifted in response to the establishment of the Al-Sharaa transitional government. The move is expected to substantially benefit the Syrian economy by opening pathways for international investments and aid that were previously blocked.

While this represents a substantial shift in US foreign policy, sanctions against individuals and entities linked to terrorism and human rights abuses will remain intact. President Trump emphasized that the reduction of sanctions aims to support the emergence of "a united Syria," which will safeguard the rights of its minority groups and not serve as a haven for terrorist activities.

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has removed 518 persons from the sanctions list, who were designated under the previous regulations. However, 139 individuals will continue to face sanctions to ensure accountability for the former Assad regime's actions.

In addition, certain key export controls and financial assistance limitations will be waived, including those under the Syria Accountability Act and the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control Act. The executive order also includes provisional measures under the Caesar Act, which allows for the suspension of some sanctions if the Syrian government demonstrates progress towards accountability for war crimes.

This move follows similar actions by other Western nations, including the United Kingdom and the European Union, both of which have recently lifted the majority of their sanctions against Syria. These international efforts have led to the creation of Syrian-foreign economic and business councils, aimed at rebuilding the war-torn nation’s economy and infrastructure.

Despite the optimistic outlook from the US and other countries, the United Nations and various human rights organizations have expressed concerns. They stress the importance of genuine political inclusion and accountability during this transitional phase. Critics argue that the newly established election committee’s structure may not sufficiently allow for public participation, casting doubt on the promise of substantive democratic reform in Syria.

As the global community watches closely, the full implications of these changes remain to be seen, with the potential to significantly influence Syria’s future and its role on the international stage.