US expects concrete steps from Syria to advance peace in Middle East — Secretary of State

Washington is counting on tangible actions from Damascus to secure lasting peace in the Middle East following the suspension of sanctions against Syria, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced.

In a statement posted on his official account on X, Rubio emphasized that the decision to temporarily suspend sanctions should also contribute to the restoration of the Syrian economy and the gradual resumption of the country's international relations, Caliber.Az reports.

Today, the Trump Administration suspended the mandatory Caesar Act sanctions in order to support Syria’s efforts to rebuild its economy, restore ties with foreign partners, and foster prosperity and peace.@StateDept also issued an advisory with @USTreasury and @CommerceGov that…

— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) November 11, 2025

“Today, the Trump Administration suspended the mandatory Caesar Act sanctions in order to support Syria’s efforts to rebuild its economy, restore ties with foreign partners, and foster prosperity and peace.

StateDept also issued an advisory with US Treasury and Commerce Gov that provides guidance on US relief for Syria.

POTUS has been clear: the United States expects to see concrete actions by the Syrian government to turn the page on the past and work towards peace in the region,” the post reads.

Earlier, on November 10, the White House hosted the first official talks between US President Donald Trump and Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed office in December 2024. In advance of al-Sharaa’s visit to Washington, the US State Department formally removed his name from the list of Specially Designated Global Terrorists, signaling a significant diplomatic shift in bilateral relations.

Following the high-level discussions, the US Department of the Treasury announced a partial easing of sanctions on Syria, authorizing the transfer of American civilian goods and technologies to the Syrian government. The enforcement of the Caesar Act has been temporarily suspended for a period of 180 days, though restrictions will remain in place for transactions involving Russia and Iran.

By Vafa Guliyeva