Gulf States Pay Off $15.5 Million Syrian Debt to World Bank

nytimes.comPublished: 5/16/2025

Summary

The World Bank cleared Syria’s $15.5 million debt after payments from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, allowing the country to access funding for reconstruction and recovery amidst decades of conflict under Assad family rule. President Trump recently lifted sanctions on Syria, marking a significant shift in U.S.-Syria relations as leaders met in Saudi Arabia for the first time in 25 years. This development signals progress toward a more stable Syria amid ongoing efforts to address its humanitarian crisis.