In brief
In a significant yet controversial move, a collective of Jews who fled Syria decades ago is rallying for relief from sanctions imposed on Syria’s nascent government established after the recent civil war. Leading this effort is Henry Hamra, a Syrian Jew who left Damascus in his youth, who recently joined forces with Syrian American advocacy groups in hopes of promoting change. Despite the presence of lingering doubts among the Jewish community and Israel regarding the new regime, Hamra's efforts stem from a deep emotional connection to his homeland.
On April 5, 2025, in Washington, Henry Hamra shared his story with lawmakers, recounting his return to Syria, a place he had dreamt of seeing again for over thirty years. Following the fall of the Assad regime, he and his father, Rabbi Yosef Hamra, visited Syria to connect with its rich Jewish heritage, which has been severely damaged by over a decade of civil strife and economic sanctions. While the reunion was rooted in hope, the reality was grim, with many historical Jewish sites left in ruins. Hamra lamented the destruction of sites like the ancient Jobar synagogue, urging that sanctions hinder necessary reconstruction efforts. His lobbying, aimed at U.S. lawmakers, represents not just a personal agenda but a broader initiative to reshape U.S.-Syria relations under the leadership of President Ahmed al-Shara, a former rebel with controversial connections.However, reactions have been mixed. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee stresses any policy change must be contingent on demonstrated goodwill from Syria’s new leaders. Hamra and like-minded advocates face the challenge of aligning their nostalgia and hope for their homeland with the skepticism that remains over the new government's associations.
