Congress Must Act: Trump’s Sanction Reversal Aids Former al-Qaeda Leader

President Trump’s recent meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa—a former al-Qaeda affiliate and leader of the al-Nusra Front—raises serious concerns about U.S. national security and foreign policy direction. Al-Sharaa, once designated a terrorist by the U.S. with a $10 million bounty on his head, now leads Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Trump’s decision to lift all U.S. sanctions on Syria and express admiration for al-Sharaa’s leadership marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, potentially legitimizing a figure with a history of extremist affiliations. This engagement not only undermines longstanding U.S. efforts to combat terrorism but also sends a troubling message to our allies and adversaries alike. By normalizing relations with a leader who has a documented history of jihadist activity, the administration risks eroding the credibility of U.S. commitments to counterterrorism and the rule of law. Moreover, lifting sanctions without clear evidence of substantial reforms or commitments to human rights and democratic principles in Syria could embolden other authoritarian regimes. I urge Congress to exercise its oversight responsibilities by investigating the implications of this diplomatic shift. It is imperative to assess the potential risks to U.S. national security and to ensure that any engagement with foreign leaders aligns with our nation’s values and strategic interests. Congress must act to uphold the integrity of U.S. foreign policy and protect the American people from the repercussions of legitimizing former adversaries without due scrutiny.