Washington: US President Donald Trump announced that the United States is "very satisfied" with the progress made in Syria under its new leadership. Trump shared these remarks on his social media platform, Truth Social, underscoring the hard work and determination evident in Syria's recent developments.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump highlighted the positive impact of lifting sanctions on Syria, which he argued has strengthened the country's political transition following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in late 2024. The termination of "very strong and biting sanctions" was described by Trump as an appreciated move by Syria, its leadership, and its people. The US has already lifted several sanctions, including delisting senior Syrian officials from UN and US terror-related sanctions. However, the lifting of the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act sanctions requires congressional action, although the administration can waive them for 180-day periods, as was done in November.

Trump also touched on the importance of maintaining regional dialogue, urging Israel to engage in constructive communication with Syria to avoid hindering Syria's progress into a prosperous state. He praised Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa for his diligent work towards positive outcomes for both countries, describing the situation as a "historic opportunity" for peace in the Middle East.

His statements come in the context of ongoing Israeli military operations in Syria. Since December 2024, Syria has reported over 1,000 Israeli airstrikes and more than 400 cross-border raids. Additionally, Israel's expansion of its occupation of the Syrian Golan Heights by seizing the demilitarized buffer zone has violated a 1974 agreement. Syrian President al-Sharaa has emphasized that a permanent peace with Israel requires a return to pre-December 8 borders.

In a bid to enhance cooperation with regional and international partners after enduring more than a decade of civil war, the Syrian president visited Washington in November.