US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (May 13) that he would lift the long-standing sanctions on the country, expressing confidence in the new Syrian government. This led to joyous processions and celebrations in various cities in Syria, including Homs and Latakia. Car horns are blaring throughout the city, cheers are heard, and fireworks are in the sky. All in all, the Syrian people are in a festive mood.
In a video circulating on social media, hundreds of people are seen in the central square of Homs city, holding Syrian and Saudi flags, chanting, “Long live Saudi Arabia! Long live Salman!” The entire city is illuminated by fireworks.
After the fall of the Assad government in Syria in December last year, a new government came to power, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa. Trump’s decision is seen as a major victory for the new Syrian government. Trump announced the lifting of the sanctions at an investment conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He said Syria has faced years of war and destruction. Now is the time to give them a chance. Trump said he had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Erdogan before making this decision.