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.

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.