A new bill, S.3172, aims to change how the United States deals with Syria by removing two existing laws that impose sanctions on the country. These laws were originally put in place to address issues like terrorism and human rights abuses. The proposed changes could have significant impacts on Syria's economy and the lives of its people.
What This Bill Does
The bill, S.3172, is quite straightforward. It proposes to repeal two existing laws: the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003 and the Syria Human Rights Accountability Act of 2012. These laws currently impose various sanctions on Syria, which include restrictions on U.S. exports to Syria, bans on Syrian government property in the U.S., and sanctions on individuals and entities involved in human rights abuses.
If this bill passes, these specific sanctions would be lifted. However, it's important to note that other sanctions on Syria would remain in place. The bill does not introduce any new sanctions or replace the existing ones with different measures. It simply removes these two specific laws from the books.
The 2003 Act was focused on issues like Syria's support for terrorist groups and its military presence in Lebanon. It required the U.S. President to impose sanctions unless Syria changed its behavior. The 2012 Act targeted individuals and entities that helped the Syrian government commit human rights abuses during the civil war. By repealing these laws, the U.S. would no longer be legally required to impose these specific sanctions.
Why It Matters
Repealing these sanctions could have a significant impact on Syria's economy and its people. Supporters of the bill argue that lifting these sanctions could help improve the dire economic situation in Syria, where over 90% of the population lives in poverty. It might also make it easier for humanitarian aid to reach those in need, as banks and companies may feel less risk in facilitating such efforts.
For everyday Americans, the bill could mean a shift in how the U.S. engages with Syria. It might open up limited economic opportunities for American companies if some restrictions are lifted. However, the broader impact would largely depend on how the remaining sanctions are managed and whether the Syrian government changes its behavior.
Key Facts
- Cost/Budget Impact: There is no Congressional Budget Office score yet, but the direct federal spending impact is expected to be small.
- Timeline for Implementation: The repeal would take effect upon enactment, once signed by the President.
- Number of People Affected: Over 90% of Syrians live in poverty, and the bill could impact their access to goods and services.
- Key Dates: The bill was introduced in the Senate on November 10, 2025.
- Other Important Details: The bill is currently referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, with no amendments proposed yet.
Arguments in Support
- Humanitarian Relief: Supporters argue that lifting these sanctions could ease Syria's economic collapse and improve conditions for civilians by allowing more humanitarian aid and trade.
- Post-Earthquake Recovery: Repealing the sanctions could facilitate rebuilding efforts after the February 2023 earthquake, making it easier to repair infrastructure.
- Ineffectiveness of Current Sanctions: The existing sanctions have not achieved their goals, such as ending support for terrorism or improving human rights, so they may be more symbolic than effective.
- Outdated Frameworks: The laws are seen as outdated, given the changes in the Syrian conflict since they were enacted, and more precise tools are now available.
- Diplomatic Engagement: Repeal could open the door for diplomatic efforts and regional normalization, potentially stabilizing the region.
Arguments in Opposition
- Human Rights Concerns: Opponents argue that repealing these laws removes important tools for holding the Assad government accountable for human rights abuses.
- Legitimizing Assad's Conduct: There is concern that lifting sanctions could be seen as rewarding or legitimizing the Syrian government's actions.
- Security Risks: The 2003 Act addresses ongoing security concerns like terrorism and Iranian influence, which remain relevant.
- Loss of Leverage: Removing these sanctions could reduce U.S. leverage in negotiations with Syria and its allies.
- Precedent for Lifting Sanctions: Opponents worry that lifting sanctions without clear improvements in behavior sets a bad precedent.