Saudi Arabia to Settle Syria’s $15 Million World Bank Debt, Sources Say

Saudi Arabia is planning to pay off Syria’s $15 million debt to the World Bank, according to three informed sources. The move, reported on April 14, 2025, could unlock international grants and aid aimed at rebuilding Syria’s war-damaged infrastructure and helping revive its public sector. This would mark Saudi Arabia’s first known financial support to Syria since Islamist rebels ousted former President Bashar al-Assad in 2024, and it comes as previous initiatives stalled over U.S. sanctions.

Additional diplomatic efforts are underway as Syrian officials prepare to attend upcoming International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings in Washington, D.C. later this month, signaling a broader shift toward renewed international engagement despite lingering U.S. sanctions. Earlier meetings in February between Syrian finance and foreign ministers and international agencies have further underscored the growing regional support for Syria’s economic recovery and reconstruction initiatives.