Rayburn Named US State Department Official for Near East and Syria File
American policy toward Syria is witnessing a gradual shift, as Washington shows willingness to review sanctions imposed on the previous regime while monitoring the performance of the new government
April 1, 2025, 10:32 pm

Rayburn Named US State Department Official for Near East and Syria File

جويل رايبورن \ متداولة

The US State Department stated in exclusive remarks to Syria TV that Joel Rayburn has been appointed as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, with the Syria file among his responsibilities. This appointment comes as part of the American administration's reordering of its priorities in the region following recent political changes.

The State Department explained that the United States has specific priorities, and that ultimately it is the Syrian people who will evaluate the new government. This view reflects Washington's desire to give Syrians space to determine their destiny while preserving its strategic interests.

It revealed that sanctions imposed on Syria are currently under review, noting that "all sanctions were imposed on the previous regime and must be reviewed." This position indicates a potential change in US policy toward Syria in response to new developments on the ground.

The State Department mentioned that it views the new government as a technocrat government and is reviewing sanctions imposed on the previous regime. This relatively positive characterization opens the door to the possibility of easing sanctions if the Syrian government continues its current approach.

It emphasized its rejection of foreign interventions in Syria, expressing its desire for "the new authorities to control all Syrian territories." This vision expresses principled support for the unity of Syrian territories and the sovereignty of its central government.

The department confirmed that it wants the new government to "exclude foreign fighters as well as prevent any Iranian influence," which represents a continuation of the American policy aimed at limiting Iranian influence in the region.

It indicated "daily discussions in the American administration regarding the Syrian file, with the decision in the hands of President Trump." This intensive follow-up shows the importance of the Syrian file to the current US administration.

The department noted that "no decision has been made yet regarding the withdrawal of American forces from Syria," reflecting the continuation of American anticipation and linking any potential withdrawal to the extent of developments on the ground and politically.

In response to Israeli violations, the State Department said: "We have no hand in what is happening in Syria," raising questions about the extent of coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv regarding military operations in Syria.

It considered that "it is too early for a comprehensive assessment of Iran's non-interference in Syria," indicating American caution regarding claims of declining Iranian influence in Syria. It concluded by expressing hope "for Syria to have good relations with neighboring countries," reflecting an American desire for regional stability that serves its long-term interests in the region.

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BENEFIT, the Kingdom’s innovator and leading company in Fintech and electronic financial transactions service, has sponsored the BuildHer CityHack 2025 Hackathon, a two-day event spearheaded by the College of Engineering and Technology at the Royal University for Women (RUW).
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