As the country emerges from years of conflict and dictatorship, many Syrians express optimism about improved global acceptance and new opportunities.
Syrians Celebrate New Hope as Travel Ban Exemption Signals Shift in U.S. Relations
Syrians Celebrate New Hope as Travel Ban Exemption Signals Shift in U.S. Relations
The recent exemption of Syria from President Trump’s travel ban is seen as a hopeful sign for the nation’s future.
During his first term, President Trump had implemented travel bans affecting Syria, categorizing refugees as needing “extreme vetting.” The bans led to canceled flights, halted refugee resettlements, and family separations. However, on June 5, Syria was exempted from the latest travel ban, marking a pivotal change in U.S. foreign policy post-Bashar al-Assad's removal in December.
Along with Syria, Iraq, North Korea, and Nigeria were the only countries previously blacklisted now receiving exemption, suggesting a new diplomatic approach. Many Syrians, including residents in Damascus, expressed hope for the future as they prepare for Eid al-Adha. Lina Habshi shared how her daughter now has a chance to travel and expand her career, highlighting a shift in perception about Syria on the global stage.
For decades, the U.S. viewed Syria skeptically, particularly after the civil war's emergence in 2011 and the rise of the Islamic State. Recently, however, the Trump administration has taken steps toward better relations, including lifting certain sanctions and engaging in dialogue with the new president, Ahmed al-Shara. This marked the first direct leadership meeting in 25 years.
The new Syrian leadership aims to restore stability after a protracted 10-year war, with the U.S. setting conditions such as the expulsion of foreign terrorist influences and commitments to prevent any resurgence of the Islamic State. Many Syrians comment on how the travel ban’s exemption represents a significant shift towards reacceptance into the global community, leading to a collective sense of joy and relief regarding their country's future trajectory.
Along with Syria, Iraq, North Korea, and Nigeria were the only countries previously blacklisted now receiving exemption, suggesting a new diplomatic approach. Many Syrians, including residents in Damascus, expressed hope for the future as they prepare for Eid al-Adha. Lina Habshi shared how her daughter now has a chance to travel and expand her career, highlighting a shift in perception about Syria on the global stage.
For decades, the U.S. viewed Syria skeptically, particularly after the civil war's emergence in 2011 and the rise of the Islamic State. Recently, however, the Trump administration has taken steps toward better relations, including lifting certain sanctions and engaging in dialogue with the new president, Ahmed al-Shara. This marked the first direct leadership meeting in 25 years.
The new Syrian leadership aims to restore stability after a protracted 10-year war, with the U.S. setting conditions such as the expulsion of foreign terrorist influences and commitments to prevent any resurgence of the Islamic State. Many Syrians comment on how the travel ban’s exemption represents a significant shift towards reacceptance into the global community, leading to a collective sense of joy and relief regarding their country's future trajectory.
