Two Republican members of the U.S. Congress visited Damascus on an unofficial trip organized by a Syrian-American nonprofit, marking the first such visit since former Syrian President Bashar Assad’s fall. They visited areas damaged by the civil war and met with government officials, including President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The Trump administration has not officially recognized the current Syrian government or lifted sanctions. The Congress members discussed the needs of the Syrian people and the transition to a democratically elected society. The visit was organized by the Syrian American Alliance for Peace and Prosperity. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also visited Damascus, aiming to strengthen Palestinian-Syrian relations and discuss regional developments. Syria has a significant Palestinian refugee population, and the Yarmouk refugee camp was largely destroyed in the war. Palestinians in Syria historically had rights similar to citizens, except for voting and running for office. Despite not having diplomatic relations, the Syrian government is not interested in conflict with Israel. Israeli forces have seized a buffer zone in Syria and launched airstrikes on military facilities. Israeli officials have expressed suspicion towards the new Syrian authorities.
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Members of Congress make an informal visit to Syria while U.S. considers easing sanctions.
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