On November 6, 2025, the U.N. Security Council voted to lift sanctions on Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and members of his government, a move supported by 14 member states, with China abstaining. This resolution is significant as it precedes al-Sharaa's upcoming visit to the White House, marking the first time a Syrian president has visited Washington since 1946. U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz emphasized that the vote reflects a new era for Syria following the ousting of Bashar Assad in December 2024. The Syrian foreign ministry welcomed the decision, viewing it as a recognition of al-Sharaa's leadership. However, China raised concerns about the resolution's failure to address broader security issues in Syria. As al-Sharaa prepares to join the U.S.-led anti-Islamic State coalition, the lifting of sanctions is seen as a step towards rebuilding Syria's economy and restoring international relations, although more stringent sanctions from Congress remain in place.