Qatar-Led Consortium Signs $7 Billion Syria Power Deal With Turkey, US, Arab Firms

Syria is experiencing a critical phase of reconstruction and transition following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in late 2024, with significant international involvement shaping its future. A $7 billion agreement was signed by companies from Turkey, Qatar, and the United States to double Syria's electricity output through new solar and thermal power projects, signaling a major step toward energy self-sufficiency and economic revival. The United States, under President Donald Trump, has lifted sanctions on Syria, marking a fresh chapter in Damascus-Washington relations, while the UAE has resumed aviation links and committed to a major investment in the port of Tartus, underscoring growing regional support for Syria's economic recovery. However, Syria's transition remains fragile, dominated by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group with a complex history linked to extremist organizations, which complicates international engagement despite its recent efforts to stabilize the region. Youth leaders from North and East Syria emphasize the importance of democratic values and inclusion in the country's rebuilding process, rejecting exclusionary constitutional declarations. Meanwhile, Western countries including the UK and EU have begun easing sanctions on Syria, removing several entities from sanctions lists to facilitate reconstruction and economic growth, while continuing to monitor developments closely.