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U.S. Lifts Syria Sanctions; Refugee Returns Expected

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Congress has permanently lifted sanctions on Syria as part of a defense bill.
This follows previous temporary suspensions by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Lebanon says the move could spur more Syrian refugees to return, though many face destroyed homes, few jobs, and safety concerns.
About 400,000 refugees have returned since December 2024, while about one million remain in Lebanon.

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Story summary

The U.S. Congress has permanently lifted sanctions on Syria as part of a defense bill.
This follows previous temporary suspensions by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Lebanon says the move could spur more Syrian refugees to return, though many face destroyed homes, few jobs, and safety concerns.
About 400,000 refugees have returned since December 2024, while about one million remain in Lebanon.