U.S. Congress Members Make Unofficial Visit to Syria Amid Sanctions Debate

On April 18, 2025, U.S. Congress members Cory Mills and Marlin Stutzman visited Syria, marking the first congressional visit since Assad’s fall. Their trip focused on assessing local conditions, discussing U.S. sanctions, and meeting with Syrian leaders, alongside Palestinian developments in the region.

On April 18, 2025, two Republican members of the U.S. Congress, Cory Mills (R-FL) and Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), embarked on an unofficial visit to Damascus, Syria. This visit, organized by a Syrian-American nonprofit, marked the first time U.S. legislators have traveled to Syria since the fall of former President Bashar Assad. During their trip, they aimed to evaluate the situation on the ground and engage with local leaders in various sectors.

As part of their itinerary, the Congress members toured the Damascus suburb of Jobar, an area with a significant historical synagogue damaged during the civil war. They also visited the Christian neighborhood of Bab Touma, where they convened with Christian religious leaders. Their discussions included anticipated meetings with Syrian government officials, including President Ahmad al-Sharaa, whose administration remains unrecognized by the U.S.

Representative Mills emphasized the importance of their visit, stating that seeing the conditions in Syria firsthand allows them to address the needs of its citizens. He conveyed expectations that conversations with al-Sharaa would revolve around potential sanctions and the necessity to transition toward a democratically elected government. Although he acknowledged that the ultimate decision on sanctions rests with the President, he indicated that Congress could provide guidance.

The congressional delegation’s visit was facilitated through the Syrian American Alliance for Peace and Prosperity, a nonprofit organization focused on enhancing ties between the U.S. and Syria. Notably, Syrian Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Kabawat, the only female and Christian member of the transitional government, accompanied the Congress members during their visit to Bab Touma, highlighting its significance for the Syrian population.

While the Congress members engaged in diplomatic activities, the U.S. State Department reiterated warnings against American citizens traveling to Syria, citing intelligence on potential threats to tourists. Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also made headlines, meeting with President al-Sharaa in a separate visit aimed at reinforcing Palestinian-Syrian relations and discussing regional issues.

Abbas’s discussions with al-Sharaa included the situation in Gaza and efforts to revitalize the longstanding and stalled plans for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They agreed to establish joint committees to enhance cooperation across various sectors, as Palestinians in Syria continue to navigate their rights and circumstances amidst the turmoil of war.

The unofficial visit by U.S. Congress members to Syria signals a potential shift in diplomatic engagement with the country. During their interactions, discussions focused on the needs of the Syrian populace and the implications of U.S. sanctions amidst ongoing regional tensions. As political dynamics evolve and key leaders engage in dialogue, the future of U.S.-Syrian relations and regional stability remains uncertain yet critical.

Original Source: apnews.com