The Syrian government responds positively to the 8 US conditions for lifting sanctions

As part of the new Syrian government’s ongoing efforts to ease economic restrictions and Western sanctions, particularly those from the United States, Damascus has sent a written response to Washington addressing the points raised regarding a partial lifting of sanctions imposed on the country.

According to Reuters, the four-page document, which the agency reviewed, shows that the Syrian authorities have responded positively to most of the US conditions and confirmed their willingness to open dialogue regarding some outstanding issues.

The letter clarified that the issue of foreign fighters joining the New Syrian Army still requires extensive consultations.

It noted that the issue had previously been raised in meetings with former US envoy Daniel Rubinstein, but its complexities require a broader dialogue.

In this context, the document noted that the promotion of six foreign fighters in December, of Turkish, Jordanian, and Uyghur nationalities, was temporarily suspended, referring to the recent freeze on their military ranks.

Damascus also pledged not to pose any threat to neighboring countries, including Israel, confirming that it’s in the process of forming a special committee to monitor the activities of Palestinian factions within its territory.

The letter stated that this issue will be subject to further discussion with the US side.

In the same context, the document stated that Syria is working to enhance coordination with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons regarding the remaining stockpile of chemical materials, as part of its commitment to international standards.

Regarding the counter terrorism issue, the letter emphasized the need to reach mutual understandings before carrying out any joint operations targeting designated terrorist organizations, with the new government pledging not to tolerate any threat that might affect US or Western interests inside Syria.

It explained that Damascus is considering developing “appropriate legal measures,” without elaborating.

In regards to missing American journalist, Austin Tice, the letter also included a pledge to open a liaison office under the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to track the fate of missing Austin Tice, who has been missing since 2012, as this issue is one of the most prominent US demands.