UN Security Council Lifts Sanctions on Syria’s New President Ahmed al-Sharaa

In a landmark diplomatic move, the UN Security (United Nations Security Council) has voted to lift sanctions on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, signalling a new phase of international engagement with Syria. The resolution, drafted by the United States, paves the way for renewed diplomatic relations just ahead of President Sharaa’s meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday.

UN Security Council Lifts Sanctions on Syria’s New President Ahmed al-Sharaa

The UN Resolution and Voting Outcome

The US-drafted resolution received 14 votes in favour, with China abstaining, reflecting near-unanimous support among the 15-member Council. This decision removes travel bans, asset freezes, and trade restrictions that had been imposed during Syria’s prolonged civil conflict.
The move represents Washington’s broader policy shift towards re-engagement with Damascus, marking the first major relaxation of international sanctions since the start of the Syrian war in 2011.

Background: Syria After Assad’s Fall

This decision comes after significant political changes in Syria following the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Assad’s regime collapsed after a rapid offensive by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—a group that once served as al-Qaeda’s affiliate before distancing itself in 2016.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former HTS commander turned nationalist leader, rose to power after Assad’s downfall, promising to rebuild Syria and restore international relations.

US Policy Shift and Global Reactions

In May 2025, President Donald Trump announced a major policy shift, signalling America’s readiness to lift unilateral sanctions on Syria. The aim is to stabilise the region, limit Iranian and Russian influence, and encourage reconstruction.
While the UN resolution aligns with this US stance, some Western nations remain cautious, citing concerns about human rights and Syria’s fragile internal politics.

Future Outlook and Regional Impact

The lifting of sanctions is expected to reopen Syria’s access to global aid, trade, and investment, accelerating reconstruction efforts. Analysts believe it could reshape Middle Eastern alliances and alter the balance of power in the region.
The upcoming Trump–Sharaa meeting is being closely watched as a potential turning point in US–Syria relations, possibly ending over a decade of diplomatic isolation and sanctions.

Exam-Oriented Notes

• The UN Security Council voted 14–1 (China abstained) to lift sanctions on Syria.
• Sanctions lifted from President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab.
• The resolution was drafted by the United States.
• Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December 2024 by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
• President Sharaa to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House.
• Policy shift aims to stabilise Syria and reduce Iranian and Russian influence.

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Question & Answer

Q1. Which organisation voted to lift sanctions on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa?
(a) NATO
(b) European Union
(c) United Nations Security Council
(d) Arab League
Answer: United Nations Security Council

Q2. How many members of the UN Security Council voted in favour of the resolution?
(a) 13
(b) 14
(c) 15
(d) 12
Answer: 14

Q3. Which country abstained from voting on the Syria sanctions resolution?
(a) India
(b) Russia
(c) France
(d) China
Answer: China

Q4. Who was ousted from power in Syria in December 2024?
(a) Ahmed al-Sharaa
(b) Bashar al-Assad
(c) Anas Khattab
(d) Hafez al-Assad
Answer: Bashar al-Assad

Q5. Which armed group led the offensive that removed Assad from power?
(a) ISIS
(b) Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)
(c) Hezbollah
(d) Free Syrian Army
Answer: Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)

Q6. The UN resolution to lift sanctions on Syria was drafted by which country?
(a) Russia
(b) United States
(c) China
(d) France
Answer: United States

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