U.S. Congress Moves to Lift Caesar Act Sanctions on Syria

The U.S. House of Representatives has advanced a bill to repeal the Caesar Act sanctions imposed on Syria during the presidency of Bashar al-Assad. This legislative move is part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a comprehensive defense policy bill. The House voted on this provision on December 8, 2025, with expectations for a Senate vote before the year's end. The Caesar Act, enacted in 2019, imposed stringent sanctions on individuals and entities linked to the Assad regime, which ruled Syria until its ousting in 2024 by rebel forces led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Al Jazeera (website)ReutersU.S. Congress Moves Toward Lifting “Caesar” Sanctions on SyriaThe U.S. Works to Lift Caesar Sanctions on Syria Following the Fall of Assad's Regime

Supporters of the repeal argue that lifting these sanctions is crucial for Syria's economic recovery. The sanctions have been viewed as significant barriers to revitalizing the war-torn economy. Representative Brian Mast of Florida, who initially opposed the repeal, stated that the NDAA provides an opportunity for Syria to "chart a post-Assad future." The bill mandates that the White House issue regular reports confirming that Syria's new government is combating Islamist militants and respecting the rights of religious and ethnic minorities.

Al Jazeera (website)ReutersU.S. Congress Moves Toward Lifting “Caesar” Sanctions on SyriaThe U.S. Works to Lift Caesar Sanctions on Syria Following the Fall of Assad's Regime

Syrian central bank Governor Abdulkader Husrieh described the potential sanctions relief as a “miracle,” emphasizing its importance for the country's economic growth. The United Nations Security Council has also voted to remove sanctions on key Syrian officials, including al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, previously linked to terrorist organizations such as ISIS and al-Qaeda.

Al Jazeera (website)ReutersU.S. Congress Moves Toward Lifting “Caesar” Sanctions on Syria

The repeal of the Caesar Act sanctions aligns with a broader strategy by the U.S. government to support Syria's recovery. Several Saudi Arabian firms are reportedly planning significant investments in Syria, indicating regional support for the new government. President Donald Trump has previously expressed his intention to lift all sanctions during a meeting with al-Sharaa in May 2025, and his administration has temporarily suspended some sanctions.

ReutersU.S. Congress Moves Toward Lifting “Caesar” Sanctions on SyriaAl Jazeera (website)The U.S. Works to Lift Caesar Sanctions on Syria Following the Fall of Assad's Regime

Despite the support for lifting the sanctions, there are concerns regarding the implications of this legislative change. Critics argue that repealing the sanctions could undermine accountability for past human rights abuses committed by the Assad regime. The requirement for the White House to certify Syria's compliance with specific conditions aims to address these concerns, but skepticism remains regarding the effectiveness of such oversight.

The U.S. Works to Lift Caesar Sanctions on Syria Following the Fall of Assad's Regime

The NDAA, which includes the repeal of the Caesar Act sanctions, is expected to pass through Congress and be signed into law by President Trump by the end of 2025. This legislative action marks a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Syria, potentially paving the way for economic recovery and political stability in the region.

Reuters

• “With this NDAA, as many know, we are repealing sanctions on Syria that were placed there because of Bashar al-Assad and the torture of his people,” — Representative Brian Mast, Florida

Al Jazeera (website)