- First US congressional visit since Assad’s 2023 removal from power
- Syria seeks sanctions relief while US demands minority rights protections
- Delegation tours war-damaged sites including ancient synagogue and Saydnaya Prison
The meeting between President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Representative Cory Mills marks a pivotal moment in Syrian-American relations, occurring 14 months after Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapsed. Observers note the talks coincide with Syria’s renewed push for Western nations to lift economic sanctions that have crippled reconstruction efforts. Congressional staffers confirm the delegation reviewed humanitarian aid distribution channels authorized under recent Treasury Department exemptions.
During their three-day fact-finding mission, the legislators visited critical infrastructure projects delayed by financial restrictions. A State Department insider revealed: Energy sector partnerships dominate discussions—particularly how temporary sanctions waivers could accelerate power grid repairs.This aligns with last month’s six-month authorization for limited energy transactions, though officials stress compliance with human rights benchmarks remains mandatory.
The delegation’s tour of Saydnaya Prison highlighted ongoing accountability challenges. UN reports estimate over 15,000 detainees perished at the facility during Assad’s rule, with forensic teams still identifying remains. Mills later tweeted: Seeing the cellblocks firsthand changes your perspective on transitional justice needs.Human rights groups criticized the visit as premature, given Syria’s incomplete war crimes tribunal framework.
Regional analysts point to Lebanon’s stabilizing influence as a model for Syria’s recovery. Beirut-based diplomats facilitated preliminary talks between Damascus and Kurdish minority leaders—a key US demand for sanctions relief. However, tensions persist following last week’s border clash between Syrian forces and Turkish-backed militias near Aleppo.
Economic data reveals the urgency: Syria’s GDP remains 60% below pre-conflict levels, with 12 million requiring food assistance. The Treasury’s temporary license for humanitarian transactions has enabled 14 new aid convoys this quarter, yet fuel shortages persist. Energy experts suggest partial sanctions relief could reactivate 38% of idle oil wells within six months, generating $200 million monthly for reconstruction.
As diplomatic channels reopen, security concerns linger. Al-Sharaa’s government continues battling ISIS remnants in eastern provinces, while Russian peacekeepers maintain buffer zones near Golan Heights. The Pentagon confirms no plans to withdraw 900 US troops stationed at Al-Tanf base, underscoring Washington’s cautious engagement strategy.
