Fri Apr 18 22:34:00 UTC 2025: **US Congressmen Make First Post-Assad Visit to Syria**
**Damascus, Syria –** In a significant diplomatic move, two US Congressmen, Cory Mills (R-FL) and Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), conducted the first official visit to Syria by American lawmakers since the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Their unofficial visit, facilitated by the Syrian American Alliance for Peace and Prosperity, included meetings with Syria’s new Islamist president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and other government officials.
The congressmen, both Republicans, discussed issues such as US sanctions, Iran’s influence, and the challenges of governing a diverse population. While acknowledging the sanctions imposed on President al-Sharaa for past ties to al-Qaeda, Congressman Stutzman cited President Trump’s past engagements with leaders from Iran and North Korea as justification for dialogue. He emphasized the importance of preventing Syria from falling further under the influence of China and Russia.
The visit included tours of war-damaged areas of Damascus, meetings with Christian religious leaders, and discussions about Israel’s military actions in Syria. Congressman Stutzman expressed hope for a strong and inclusive Syrian government and improved relations between Syria and Israel.
The US recently presented Syria with conditions for partial sanctions relief, including the removal of foreign fighters from leadership positions. While the Trump administration has engaged minimally with the new Syrian government, this visit suggests a potential shift in US policy towards engagement.
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