Sharaa, who previously fought with Islamist rebel groups, is working to consolidate authority in a country still grappling with the effects of a 14-year conflict and deep sectarian divisions. His leadership has faced skepticism, particularly from minority communities.

Around 6,000 electors are expected to participate in the vote, held at regional electoral colleges beginning at 9:00 a.m. local time (0600 GMT) and concluding by 5:00 p.m. (1400 GMT). The vote will fill two-thirds of the 210 seats in the new parliament, with the remaining third to be appointed directly by the president. Results are anticipated later the same evening.

A total of 1,570 candidates were approved by a committee established by the current administration. These candidates presented their policy proposals during organised seminars and debates in the lead-up to the vote. However, public campaigning appeared subdued, with limited visibility in major urban areas.

The newly elected parliament is expected to play a central role in shaping Syria’s future governance, though its full formation will depend on presidential appointments following the election.

Speaking at a White House briefing late Monday, President Trump said the move is being considered as part of a broader effort to offer Syria “a fresh start,” citing international pressure and humanitarian concerns.

“A lot of people including President Erdogan of Turkey and leaders from the region have asked us to look at the sanctions,” Trump said. “We’re considering it. Syria has gone through a lot. We want to see if we can help them move forward.”

The comments come amid growing debate within the international community over how to handle Syria’s fragile post-conflict transition. While the U.S. has long maintained a strict sanctions regime targeting the Assad government and its allies, Trump’s remarks suggest a potential shift in policy.

Analysts say any move to ease sanctions would mark a major development in U.S.-Syria relations, signaling Washington’s willingness to engage with new actors in Damascus provided the country demonstrates tangible reforms and stability.

Human rights groups have raised concerns that lifting sanctions too early could risk emboldening remnants of the old regime or allow corruption to flourish during the rebuilding process. However, Trump emphasized that any changes would be “measured” and “conditional.”

“Nothing is final yet,” the president said. “But we are listening. We want to see a peaceful, stable Syria where people can live without fear and begin to rebuild their lives.”

As of now, U.S. officials have not released details on which sanctions could be lifted or what criteria would be required. The White House is expected to consult with Congress and key allies before making a final decision.

If enacted, the move could open the door for foreign investment and humanitarian aid into Syria, potentially accelerating the recovery of war-torn regions and signaling a new chapter in Middle East diplomacy.

In an important move, various Kurdish factions have reached a consensus on a political plan that includes a federal structure. Although this proposal has not yet been formally announced, it reflects the growing unity within the Kurdish political landscape. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which holds significant control over the northeastern part of the country, had previously signed an agreement with the Syrian government to integrate Kurdish-run administrative and security structures into the national framework. However, Kurdish officials remain critical of the way Syria’s new leadership, particularly its Islamist elements, is handling the country’s transition, expressing concerns that the principles of inclusivity are not being upheld.

Badran Jia Kurd, a senior Kurdish representative, confirmed that all Kurdish factions are united on the need for a “federal, pluralistic, democratic parliamentary system.” This position marks a shift from the more cautious approach the Kurds had previously taken, where they spoke of decentralization without directly using the term “federalism.” While Syria’s Kurds are not seeking independence, they are adamant about having control over their affairs within the broader Syrian state.

The opposition from figures like Sharaa to a federal system is based on concerns that such a structure may not have broad support among Syrians and could undermine national unity. Despite this, the Kurdish vision for Syria emphasizes the importance of regional governance, including local legislative bodies, executive management, and security forces.

As Syria navigates its complex post-Assad future, the Kurdish push for federalism underscores the deepening divisions within the country, particularly regarding how to manage its diverse populations. The issue also affects neighboring countries, such as Turkey, which views the Kurdish political movements with suspicion due to their historical ties to groups deemed as security threats.