U.S. Calls for Sanctions Review as Syria Fights New Leadership Battle

The United States is advocating for a review of U.N. sanctions on Syria, urging the Security Council to adjust measures to support the nation's new government. This call comes after an Islamist insurgency led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) toppled President Bashar al-Assad, marking a significant shift in Syria's decade-long conflict.

HTS, once tied to al Qaeda, now leads Syria's interim government, with its members, including leader Ahmed Sharaa, facing U.N. sanctions. Acting U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Dorothy Shea emphasized the need for the international community to reassess these sanctions to aid Syria's fight against terrorism.

An unpublished U.N. report suggests no active ties exist between HTS and al Qaeda this year, a detail potentially fortifying U.S. efforts to ease some sanctions. President Trump previously hinted at a policy shift regarding Syria, advocating for sanctions review amidst ongoing geopolitical dynamics.

(With inputs from agencies.)