Senator Graham says conditional sanctions relief for Syria possible
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham announced on Tuesday during a visit to Turkey this week that he is open to supporting sanctions relief for Syria—under strict conditions and in close coordination with key regional allies, particularly Israel.
Graham emphasized that his trip’s primary purpose was to assess the evolving situation in Syria firsthand. While expressing cautious optimism, he underscored that any shift in U.S. policy must be grounded in clear evidence of change on the ground.
“I am very inclined to support sanctions relief for Syria under the right conditions,” he stated. “However, we must remember that the current leadership in Syria achieved its position through force of arms, not through the will of its people.”
The senator acknowledged that the Trump administration had conveyed specific requirements to Syrian officials regarding the steps needed to qualify for sanctions relief.
He reaffirmed Congress’s central role in this process, recalling his own support for the sanctions provisions embedded in the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.
Graham also pointed to Syria’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism under U.S. law as a significant barrier to normalization. “For that designation to be lifted, the administration must submit a report to Congress explaining how circumstances have changed,” he said.
“That report has not been received, and Congress reserves the right to review and respond accordingly.”
Highlighting the broader strategic implications, Graham noted, “The designation carries tremendous ramifications apart from the sanctions themselves. Congress must be fully informed about any shifts in Syrian compliance before making an informed decision.”
He also detailed ongoing consultations with regional allies. “I have been in close contact with Israel, which remains deeply concerned about developments in Syria. I’ll be discussing this issue further with our allies in Turkey and maintaining close coordination with Israel to fully assess the implications of potential sanctions waivers.”
Graham emphasized that any attempt to lift sanctions passed by Congress must be pursued in concert with U.S. allies, particularly Israel, to address long-standing security concerns. “Over the past decades, Syrian territory has been used as a platform to launch attacks against Israel,” he warned.
Looking ahead, Graham expressed cautious hope regarding the political developments in Syria. “This newly formed government may offer a pathway to unifying the country and promoting regional stability. But a stable Syria would be a game changer only if its progress is credible and carefully evaluated.”