Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s rule in late 2024, Syria has embarked on a significant political and economic transformation under the leadership of President Abu al-Sharaa. This shift has been marked by the easing of international sanctions, policy reforms, and efforts aimed at national reconciliation, though considerable challenges remain.
Abu Lababidi, a Syrian-American board member of the Syrian-American Council who has lived in the United States for four decades, has observed these changes firsthand. Lababidi, who opposed Assad’s regime, attributes recent developments to the new government’s pragmatic approach. Since the lifting of some sanctions earlier this year, economic activity has shown signs of revival. Among the reforms Lababidi highlights is the repeal of the ban on car imports, which had previously restricted Syrians from bringing vehicles into the country.
Anti-corruption measures have also been introduced. Bribery, once a widespread practice allowing travelers to avoid airport inspections through unofficial payments, is now punishable by up to one year in prison. Another notable economic shift is the introduction of credit card usage and the reconnection of Syrian banks with global financial networks, which had been banned under Assad's rule. These changes aim to modernize the economy and improve access to financial services.
Monthly salaries across Syria have increased to between $100 and $150, a substantial rise from levels seen under the previous regime. Additionally, military conscription is no longer compulsory. This is a significant development, given that under Assad, many young men avoided leaving their homes due to fear of forced recruitment and the military’s harsh actions against civilians.
Despite such progress, Syria continues to grapple with the aftereffects of years of conflict, particularly in education and workforce integration. Many young Syrians missed out on schooling, prompting the government to initiate training programs designed to address gaps and facilitate employment. Recent parliamentary elections have been announced as part of broader efforts to rebuild state institutions and foster unity in a country long fragmented by civil war.
However, al-Sharaa’s leadership remains controversial, particularly due to his past affiliations. Having previously led Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an al-Qaeda-linked group, his history has engendered mistrust, especially in Israel and among Syria’s minority communities, including Alawites, Druze, Kurds, and Christians.
Michael Harari, a former Israeli ambassador born in Aleppo, acknowledges al-Sharaa’s complex past but characterizes his current stance as “wise and pragmatic.” Harari notes that the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for al-Sharaa, viewing him as a leader who does not seek confrontation with Israel or Syria’s neighbors. Moreover, al-Sharaa’s government has actively combated Islamic State militants and opposed Iranian efforts to use Syrian territory to supply Hezbollah, enhancing his regional credibility in some quarters.
Harari suggests that this evolving U.S. policy presents Israel with an opportunity to engage diplomatically with Syria through the new regime. However, he cautions that Syria’s reconstruction could be hindered by broader geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing rivalry between Iran and the United States. He also notes that Gulf states, while potential investors, are currently focused on pressing domestic issues, which may limit their ability to participate in Syria’s economic recovery.
As Syria navigates this uncertain transition period, the balance between internal reform, regional diplomacy, and external investment will be crucial to the country’s prospects for stability and growth.