About our US-Syria news
Latest news on US-Syria relations, providing comprehensive coverage of diplomatic shifts, sanctions policy, military presence, humanitarian aid and post-Assad developments in 2025.
Following the dramatic collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime on 8 December 2024, US-Syria relations have entered a pivotal phase. The Biden administration has begun working with Syria's Transitional Government while maintaining a careful approach to the emerging political landscape, particularly regarding the role of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in the new administration.
Recent developments include the US Treasury Department's announcement of a six-month sanctions waiver to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery, though broader sanctions remain in place. In a significant shift, Washington has removed the USD$10 million bounty on Ahmed al-Sharaa, now a key figure in Syria's new leadership, following diplomatic meetings in Damascus. Senior US officials have engaged in direct talks with the new Syrian administration, focusing on counter-terrorism cooperation and the release of American detainees.
The US maintains approximately 900 troops in Syria to support counter-ISIS operations and assist the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast. These forces have faced increased challenges since October 2024, with at least nine drone and rocket attacks linked to regional tensions. The Biden administration has emphasised its commitment to protecting US personnel while supporting Syria's stabilisation efforts.
The complex history between the two nations dates back to 1835, when the US first appointed consuls to Aleppo. Relations deteriorated significantly after Syria's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism in 1979, a status that persisted throughout the Assad regime's rule. The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, led to the suspension of diplomatic relations in 2012 and the implementation of extensive sanctions under the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act.
Our NewsNow feed delivers real-time updates on US-Syria relations, covering diplomatic developments, military operations, humanitarian initiatives, and policy changes. Stay informed about this rapidly evolving relationship as Syria undergoes its historic transition, with implications for regional stability and international cooperation in the Middle East.