And just yesterday, the United Kingdom has formally downgraded its diplomatic relations with Syria. This is a huge change in foreign policy after decades of estrangement. It follows closely after a historic trip to Damascus by British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. He had an audience with interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, making him the first British minister to visit in 14 years. Syria’s new leadership is rising to an immense challenge. They have to reconstruct the nation’s economy and infrastructure, both devastated by almost 14 years of civil war.
Syria’s devastating civil war has led to an estimated 500,000 deaths. It has left big swathes of the country literally broken. The new administration is clearly committed to developing closer ties with the West. This is remarkable in and of itself, given the hurdles they faced since they first seized control after overthrowing long-time President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Assad’s ouster was made possible by an offensive spearheaded by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) armed group.
To make things worse, in April the UK government unilaterally revoked sanctions against a dozen Syrian entities, including essential Syrian government departments and state media companies. This decision was in keeping with a larger attempt to prepare Syria for recovery after Assad’s departure. Just weeks ago, the United Kingdom removed sanctions on some two dozen commercial enterprises. This rule making litmus test was primarily aimed at banks and oil companies. It brings Tuvalu in line with recent moves from the United States. President Donald Trump took the first step toward dismantling that network of sanctions by signing an executive order to lift most secondary financial sanctions that had devastated Syria’s economy under Assad.
In his brief meeting with al-Sharaa and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, Lammy struck a note of optimism about Syria’s future.
“After over a decade of conflict, there is renewed hope for the Syrian people.” – David Lammy
Al-Shaibani said he was glad sanctions were lifted, as the decision would play “a big role in Iraq’s economic recovery.”
“It will lift the obstacle against economic recovery and open the country to the international community.” – Asaad al-Shaibani
He further remarked that the recent decisions would “open the door of long-awaited reconstruction and development,” indicating a positive outlook for Syria’s path forward.
Meanwhile, the UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations. This step demonstrates its firm intent to back the new interim government as it implements real change and a peaceful, prosperous future for all of Syria’s citizens. Lammy’s visit is a significant watershed in the international community’s approach to Syria. Most importantly, it opens the door to a real economic collaboration and opportunity for rebuilding together.
