Sourced fact
The News
According to The Times of Israel, Visa and Mastercard have resumed processing the first international card transactions in Syria after more than a decade of suspension.
Analysis & context
Analysis & Context
Analytically, this move is seen as an indicator of Syria's reintegration into the global financial system, following Washington's removal of the country from its list of state sponsors of terrorism. In a broader context, this development reflects Syria's efforts to ease sanctions and reintegrate economically with the world. However, significant challenges remain for Syria's financial system, including ongoing Western sanctions and difficulties with local financial infrastructure.

