JOINT STATEMENT
April 27th, 2025
A diverse group of Syrian American leaders from four active advocacy organizations: SAC, ACS, C4SSA and SAAPP had the privilege of meeting with Senator Jim Risch, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today.
This meeting marked our second engagement with the Senator within a span of one month, underscoring the importance of ongoing dialogue and mutual cooperation.
We were also honored to welcome Congressman Cory Mills, who briefed the Senator on his recent visit to Damascus. Congressman Mills shared his observations and insights from his meetings in Syria, providing a comprehensive overview of the current situation.
During this significant gathering, the community expressed its gratitude to Senator Risch for co-authoring a bipartisan letter with Senator Jeanne Shaheen to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. This letter called for sanctions relief, highlighting the humanitarian concerns and the need for a nuanced approach to U.S. policy towards Syria.
Participants, some of whom had recently returned from Syria, took the opportunity to share their firsthand experiences with the Senator. Syrian Christians reported on the peaceful celebration of the Easter holiday in Damascus, noting that they were able to celebrate openly and without fear. Additionally, Jewish leaders who have recently visited Syria shared poignant testimonies about their warm reception and the emotional significance of Jews returning to Syria for the first time in decades.
Given the dire economic ruin left by the Assad regime and the extensive need for rebuilding, we discussed the necessity of completely lifting sanctions. This measure is crucial to help Syria recover, facilitate the return of refugees, Keep Iran and Hezbollah out, prevent the resurgence of ISIS, and reduce Russia’s involvement in the region.
While Senator Risch stressed that lifting sanctions should be contingent on clear metrics and the Syrian administration’s ability to meet its commitments, we were encouraged by his support for pausing all sanctions. This suspension would provide Syria with the essential breathing room needed for reconstruction. Senator Risch specifically noted the significant impact of sanctions on critical sectors, including finance, banking, healthcare, and other vital areas.
The participants also advocated for the restoration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Syria. They highlighted issues such as the lack of access to consular services in the U.S., which affects their ability to handle essential matters like registering births, deaths, and marriages, and renewing passports. The Senator recognized the legitimacy of these concerns and promised to discuss them, along with other points raised during our meeting, with the administration.
As Syrian American advocacy organizations, we stand united in our commitment to advocate for policies that improve the lives of Syrians and serve the U.S. national interest.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Senator Risch for his openness and commitment to these discussions and hope to continue this constructive dialogue in the near future. We also express our profound gratitude to Congressman Cory Mills for taking the time to join us today and share his invaluable insights with Senator Risch.
Syrian American Council (SAC)
American Coalition for Syria (ACS)
Syrian American Alliance for Peace and Prosperity (SAAPP)
Citizens for a Secure and Safe America (C4SSA)
