Syrian foreign minister visits Washington for the first time

Historic Meeting Between Syrian and US Officials

Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani visited Capitol Hill on Thursday, marking the first time in 25 years that a Syrian government representative has officially met with US officials.

This meeting comes as the Trump administration and Congress explore new avenues with Damascus after the ousting of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad in December.

It was Al Shaibani’s second trip to Washington in his current role, and he engaged in his first official discussions with US government representatives. He was also in Washington for meetings at the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund this year.

During his visit, Al-Shaibani met with lawmakers from both parties as Congress considers the possibility of repealing the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, which imposes comprehensive sanctions on Syria.

Tom Barrack, who accompanied both the Syrian and Turkish ambassadors during the visit, expressed optimism that Congress would support the complete repeal of the Caesar Act.

Supporters of the repeal argue that the sanctions are outdated, instituted by Congress in response to Assad’s atrocities against civilians, including torture, extrajudicial killings, and the use of chemical weapons.

On the other hand, opponents of the repeal advocate for a cautious approach, citing interim president Ahmed Alshara’s prior affiliations with terrorist groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS, alongside recent incidents of ethnic violence in the country.

In May, Trump met with Alshara in Saudi Arabia and called for all sanctions against Syria to be lifted, providing a six-month exemption on Caesar sanctions. Advocates for a permanent repeal argue that temporary measures could hinder long-term investments and reconstruction efforts in Syria.

Barrack noted that Congressional concerns are valid, stating, “We’re trying to deal with them.” He added, “It’s crucial to follow President Trump’s advice, give them a chance, and end the sanctions.”

“The Caesar Act is complex, yet business must resume. There will be scrutiny and accountability,” he remarked, emphasizing Syria’s commitment to oversight.

Following his meeting with Al Shaibani, Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) described the discussions as “constructive and interesting.”

A key focus for lawmakers is the advancement of security agreements between Syria and Israel. Before arriving in Washington, Al-Shaibani reportedly met with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs, Ron Dahmer, who presented a proposal for an agreement between the two nations.

Israel’s stipulations include creating an expanded buffer zone between the countries, imposing restrictions on weapons stationed near the border, and other provisions to limit Syrian aircraft operations from southwestern Damascus to the Israeli border.