The U.S. Congress is set to vote on a pivotal measure that could permanently lift the so-called "Caesar" sanctions against Syria before the end of the year.

The repeal is included as an amendment within the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), marking a potential turning point for the Syrian economy and its new government.                                                                                                                                      If passed, the legislation requires the White House to provide an initial report to congressional committees within 90 days of enactment, followed by updates every 180 days for four years.

The continuation of sanctions relief is contingent upon several conditions, including Syria’s active fight against terrorist groups, respect for the rights of ethnic and religious minorities, avoidance of unilateral military operations against neighboring states, ongoing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures, and accountability for past human rights violations.

Efforts to combat drug production and trafficking are also included among the criteria. Should these conditions not be met for two consecutive reporting periods, sanctions could be reinstated.

The Caesar Act, named after the Syrian military photographer who smuggled thousands of images documenting torture and war crimes under former President Bashar al-Assad, was enacted by Congress on December 11, 2019. The law imposed strict sanctions on individuals, companies, and institutions linked to the Assad regime in response to violations against civilians during Syria’s civil war.

Temporary relief from the sanctions was announced by the U.S. administration on November 10, 2025, but permanent removal requires congressional approval. Analysts see the repeal as a critical step for the normalization of Syria’s international relations under the interim government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa since March 2025. The lifting of sanctions is expected to pave the way for renewed foreign investment and humanitarian aid, which have been severely restricted by the U.S. measures over the past six years.

The NDAA, including the Caesar Act repeal, is scheduled for a congressional vote in the coming days, with expectations for final passage before the end of the year. Washington’s move has already drawn attention from international investors, with several Gulf-based firms reportedly planning multi-billion-dollar projects to support Syria’s economic recovery. (ILKHA)