What's happened
On April 19, 2025, U.S. Representatives Cory Mills and Marlin Stutzman visited Syria, marking the first trip by American lawmakers since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. They met with President Ahmad al-Sharaa to discuss U.S. sanctions and the potential for peace with Israel, amid calls for lifting sanctions to revive Syria's economy.
What's behind the headline?
Key Insights
- Normalization Efforts: President Sharaa has expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords, contingent on addressing concerns about Syria's territorial integrity and foreign fighters.
- U.S. Sanctions: The U.S. has set conditions for lifting sanctions, including the removal of foreign fighters from leadership roles and guarantees for Israel's security. This reflects a cautious approach to engaging with the new Syrian government.
- Regional Dynamics: The visit highlights the complex interplay between U.S. interests, Israeli security concerns, and Syria's aspirations for economic recovery. The U.S. lawmakers' engagement may signal a shift towards a more open dialogue with Syria, potentially reshaping regional alliances.
- Future Implications: If the U.S. and Syria can establish a constructive relationship, it could lead to a more stable Middle East. However, skepticism remains regarding Sharaa's commitment to reform and the potential for renewed conflict in the region.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reported that Rep. Marlin Stutzman noted Sharaa's openness to normalization with Israel but emphasized the need for Syria's unity. Meanwhile, Rep. Cory Mills discussed the conditions for lifting U.S. sanctions, highlighting the complexities of U.S.-Syria relations. AP News provided context on the congressional visit, emphasizing the historical significance of American lawmakers engaging with Syria's new leadership. The New York Times detailed the visit's objectives, including assessing the humanitarian situation and the impact of sanctions on the Syrian economy.
How we got here
The visit follows the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, leading to a new Islamist-led government under President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The U.S. has maintained sanctions against Syria, which the new leadership seeks to lift to rebuild the war-torn economy.
Go deeper
- What are the conditions for lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria?
- How does Israel view the new Syrian government?
- What impact could this visit have on U.S.-Middle East relations?
Common question
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Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas's recent visit to Syria marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Syria relations, especially following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. This visit raises questions about the future of diplomatic ties, the impact of U.S. sanctions, and the evolving political landscape in Syria. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this significant event.
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What Happened During Abbas's Meeting with Al-Sharaa?
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas recently met with new Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking a significant moment in Middle Eastern politics. This meeting, the first of its kind since 2009, raises questions about shifting alliances and the role of the U.S. in the region. Here are some key insights and answers to common questions surrounding this pivotal event.
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What Does the Recent Visit of US Lawmakers to Syria Mean for Peace?
On April 19, 2025, U.S. Representatives Cory Mills and Marlin Stutzman made headlines with their visit to Syria, marking a significant moment in U.S.-Syria relations following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. This visit raises important questions about the future of peace in the region, the implications for U.S. sanctions, and the potential for improved relations with Israel. Here are some key questions and answers regarding this pivotal event.
More on these topics
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Marlin Andrew Stutzman (born August 31, 1976) is an American politician who has served as the U.S. representative from Indiana's 3rd congressional district since 2025, having previously represented that district from 2010 to 2017. A member of the Republic
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Cory Lee Mills (born July 13, 1980) is an American politician, businessman, and Army veteran who has served as the U.S. representative from Florida's 7th congressional district since 2023. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as a Trump.
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Syria, officially the Syrian Arab Republic, is a country in Western Asia, bordering Lebanon to the southwest, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, and Israel to the southwest.
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Bashar Hafez al-Assad is a Syrian politician who has been the President of Syria since 17 July 2000. In addition, he is commander-in-chief of the Syrian Armed Forces and Regional Secretary of the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party's branch in Syria.
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Mahmoud Abbas, also known by the kunya Abu Mazen, is the President of the State of Palestine and Palestinian National Authority.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.