Trump signs executive order lifting most sanctions on Syria, keeps pressure on Assad

President Trump wiped away most punishment rules against Syria on Monday. The White House announced this major change affects the war-torn country after years of tough economic blocks. American officials removed five different penalty programs that stopped trade and money flow. The new Syrian government can finally do business with American companies again. Treasury Department workers already gave permission for deals with Syria's banks and state businesses.

Assad and his criminal friends still face money blocks from Washington. Drug dealers and chemical weapon makers cannot escape these restrictions either. ISIS terrorists and Iranian helpers remain on the punishment list too. State Secretary Marco Rubio must check if Syria should stay labeled as a terror supporter. The department will also review whether rebel groups deserve their terrorist tags.

Syria's brutal dictator lost power last December after 13 years of bloody civil war. Rebel fighters took control and started building a new government from scratch. The country needs to rebuild everything after massive destruction and millions of deaths. American leaders want Syria to make peace with Israel and stop ISIS from coming back. Trump promised to lift these blocks if Syria's new rulers cooperate with American goals.