Syrian FM Shibani Visits Washington for Historic Talks on Sanctions and Israel Deal

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani is set to meet U.S. lawmakers in Washington this week to push for the lifting of remaining American sanctions, including those imposed under the Caesar Act. Senator Lindsey Graham confirmed to Axios that he and fellow senators will hold discussions with Shibani on Thursday, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet him Friday. This marks the first visit by a Syrian foreign minister to Washington in over 25 years.

The diplomatic push follows Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s statement that ongoing negotiations with Israel over a potential security pact could yield results “in the coming days.” Syria hopes the deal will halt Israeli airstrikes and secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces operating in southern Syria. Reports suggest Washington is pressing Damascus to finalize the agreement ahead of next week’s U.N. General Assembly in New York, though President Sharaa has denied U.S. pressure, framing America’s role as that of mediator.

Graham indicated he would support lifting sanctions if Syria moves forward with a security pact with Israel and joins a coalition against the Islamic State extremist group. The U.S. State Department has not yet commented on Shibani’s visit.

Syria’s current leadership rose to power after President Sharaa led a successful offensive that ousted former leader Bashar al-Assad in December, ending 13 years of civil war. Since then, Israel has carried out more than 1,000 airstrikes and 400 ground incursions into Syrian territory. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump lifted some key U.S. sanctions, signaling a shift in Washington’s policy toward Damascus.

Shibani’s visit could mark a turning point in U.S.-Syria relations, with regional security and sanctions relief at the core of the talks.