The US embassy reopened in Syria - a historic flag was raised

After years of silence and frozen relations, diplomatic relations between the United States and Syria are being revived. This historic event took place in May 2025 - the US special representative for Syria, Thomas Barrack, officially raised the American flag at the premises of the American embassy, which had been closed since 2012. According to Reuters, this ceremony marked the resumption of the US diplomatic mission in Syria.

US and Syria: Have the glaciers begun to melt?

This step marks a significant shift in the US political and strategic position in the Middle East. According to Thomas Barrack, this resumption of activities is taking place without demands, without conditions and without interference.

“America’s goal and President Donald Trump’s vision is that we should give this young government a chance without interfering, without making demands, without setting conditions, without forcing our culture on your culture,” said Thomas Barrack.

He also noted that relations between the two countries are rapidly improving after the US administration lifted sanctions on Syria.

Sanctions lifted — economic ties are being established

According to reports, a number of economic restrictions imposed by US President Donald Trump on Syria in May have been officially lifted. As a result, personal sanctions against Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab were also lifted.

Among those exempted from sanctions are a number of strategic objects: the oil refineries in Homs and Banias, the Commercial and Real Estate Banks, as well as companies related to shipping. These changes could take economic cooperation between the two countries to a new level.

Embassy history: the closure in 2012 and the role of the Czech Republic

As a reminder, the US embassy in Damascus, Syria, closed its doors in 2012 in protest against the protests in the country and their violent suppression. Since then, the Czech diplomatic mission has been protecting American interests.

Hope for political dialogue and regional stability

Thomas Barrack also touched upon the relations between Syria and Israel, stating that this problem can be resolved. According to him, any process should begin on the basis of dialogue and mutual respect.

“We need to at least reach an agreement on non-aggression, discuss border issues,” he said.

Historic meeting of the leaders of the United States and Syria

In addition, on May 14, US President Donald Trump held talks with the interim President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharrah, in Saudi Arabia. This meeting could be important in ensuring stability in the region.

Conclusion: is a new page being opened?

The resumption of the activities of the American embassy in Syria could open a new page not only for relations between the two countries, but also for the geopolitical situation in the entire Middle East region. The US approach based on dialogue and cooperation is likely to serve to warm up relations that have been frozen for years. For now, all eyes are on the next practical steps.