U.S. President Donald Trump has wrapped up the first day of his four-day tour of the Middle East with a significant foreign policy announcement: the United States will move to lift sanctions on Syria, marking a major shift in U.S. strategy in the region.

Speaking during his visit to Saudi Arabia, Trump praised the kingdom as a key ally, declaring, “The U.S. has no stronger partner than Saudi Arabia.” The statement underscored a renewed focus on strengthening U.S.-Saudi ties amid evolving regional alliances.

The decision to lift sanctions on Syria was welcomed by Syrian officials and sparked celebrations in parts of Damascus. The White House has not yet released full details of the timeline or conditions for the sanctions rollback.

Critics say the move could weaken U.S. leverage over the Assad regime, while supporters argue it could pave the way for regional stability and re-engagement with Syria after years of diplomatic isolation.

Trump’s trip includes additional stops in Israel and Egypt, with further meetings expected to address security cooperation, economic ties, and broader efforts to reshape U.S. policy in the Middle East.

Trump’s Middle East itinerary includes stops in Israel and Egypt, where discussions will focus on security cooperation, counter-extremism, and expanding trade ties. A trilateral summit with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is expected later in the week.

While the decision to lift sanctions on Syria will dominate headlines, observers say the overall trip signals a recalibration of U.S. engagement in the region away from regime change policies and toward deal making and diplomacy.