Washington, D.C. – Syrian Christians USA hails President Trump’s announcement that he will take executive action to lift U.S. sanctions on Syria. This is an unprecedented step that will greatly benefit the Syrian people, particularly Syrian Christians.
Since the downfall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Syrians have called upon the U.S. and its allies to suspend economic sanctions and export controls that were imposed in response to the regime’s brutal war against the Syrian people. These penalties unfairly targeted Syrian Christians looking to remain in their homeland where they, like all Syrian citizens, require much needed stability and job opportunities.
President Trump’s action is a very critical economic step for Syrian reconstruction that will provide incentives to the Syrian diaspora to provide investment in their homeland. At the same time, the lifting of sanctions opens the door to forging trade ties and foreign investment, that would include the United States.
Mirna Barq, President of Syrian Christians USA, saluted President Trump for his bold action and its implication for the future of U.S.-Syria relations:
“The lifting of sanctions is a clear signal that the U.S. has pivoted to Syria and will restore ties with the new government. Syrian Christians now have hope for a brighter future where they can rebuild and stay in their country. Thank you Mr. President for, in your words, deciding to “give them a chance at greatness.” said Barq.
The United States has taken the first step to help Syria recover from 14 years of war. We urge Congress to take the next important step and repeal sanctions legislation, including the Caesar Act. This meaningful step will further give all Syrians, including Syrian Christians, a real chance at a prosperous, peaceful and dignified future.
“Between Two Flags: A Tale of Freedom, Fear, and Resistance”
Yasser Ashkar grew up in Syria and was forced to flee his homeland due to his participation in the revolution which began in 2011. In 2024 he became a US citizen and will be sharing his experience of navigating identity and warning signs in two vastly different but surprisingly similar homelands.
Yasser will also introduce Mirna Barq, President of Syrian Christians USA, an organization advocating for secular democracy in Syria and the protection of the rights of Syrian Christians. Originally from Hanania Street in Damascus—home to one of the world’s oldest churches—Mrs. Barq has long been a vocal critic of government corruption in Syria. Her outspokenness led to repeated interrogations by the secret police, ultimately prompting her to seek refuge in the United States.
Mrs. Barq holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, both from the University of Central Florida. She currently serves as a Project Manager for the Orange County Public Works Department in Florida.
