French intelligence outlet links Syria sanctions U-turn to Trump’s business ties

Intelligence Online, seen as echoing French intelligence views, links the US decision to lift longstanding sanctions on Damascus to lobbying by the little-known but influential Syrian-American Alliance for Peace and Prosperity (SAAPP), led by businesswoman Alia Natafgi.

The unexpected policy shift, announced by US President Donald Trump, marks a significant turn in Washington’s approach to Syria, Caliber.Az reports.

Thus, since the start of the year, the alliance has strengthened ties with Republican lawmakers and arranged the first official visit by US politicians to Damascus since the change of leadership in Syria.

The delegation, which included Congressmen Mills and Stutzman, held talks with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Speaking at a meeting in Saudi Arabia on May 14, Trump referred to al-Sharaa as a “tough guy” and publicly wished Syria “good luck.” According to Intelligence Online, the US administration did not seek any concessions from Damascus in return for the sanctions relief.

The publication highlighted that business interests played a central role in the rapprochement. Tarek Naemo, a developer close to Trump and linked to a Riyadh-based investment fund, has reportedly been pushing for the reconstruction of Syria.

He is said to have even presented a concept for a Trump Tower in Damascus.

The sanctions reversal has sparked debate in Washington, but the article underscores that for Trump, the decision was driven less by geopolitics than by commercial opportunity.

By Aghakazim Guliyev