A series of business proposals tied to Syria’s post-war reconstruction has drawn scrutiny in Washington, after links emerged between foreign investors, U.S. policymakers, and projects connected to the Trump family.
According to a report by The New York Times, Syrian businessman Mohamad Al-Khayyat pitched an ambitious plan to develop coastal land in Syria, including a luxury resort and a Trump-branded golf course. The proposal coincided with lobbying efforts to secure the permanent lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria—seen as critical for unlocking billions in foreign investment.
At the same time, members of the Khayyat family were negotiating major reconstruction contracts in Syria and exploring a separate multibillion-dollar resort partnership in Albania involving Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. While officials have denied any direct link between these business dealings and U.S. policy decisions, critics argue the overlap raises concerns about the intersection of private interests and foreign policy.
U.S. lawmakers ultimately approved legislation to permanently lift sanctions in late 2025, a move supporters say will aid Syria’s recovery following years of conflict. However, some members of Congress had initially expressed concern about removing leverage over the country’s new leadership.
In a social media post, Rep. Mike Levin described the situation as a troubling example of influence over policy, alleging that business incentives tied to Trump-branded projects played a role in the push to lift sanctions. He called for greater transparency, saying the American public “deserve[s] to know about it.”
The White House and Trump Organization have denied any improper conduct, stating that policy decisions were made independently of private business interests.
This should be on the front page of every newspaper in America.
A Syrian billionaire needed U.S. sanctions lifted so he could cash in on $12 billion in reconstruction contracts.
In an attempt to influence American foreign policy, he proposed a Trump-branded golf course, cut…
— Rep. Mike Levin (@RepMikeLevin) April 24, 2026
