Saudi Arabia plans to settle Syria's $15 million World Bank debt

Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing to pay off Syria's $15 million debts to the World Bank, a move that could unlock crucial reconstruction funding and aid for Syria's struggling public sector. This plan marks the first known instance of Saudi financial support for Syria since the ousting of former president Bashar al-Assad by Islamist-led rebels last year. The initiative is seen as a potential turning point in Gulf Arab engagement with Syria, following previous plans that were stalled due to uncertainties around U.S. sanctions. Alongside Saudi Arabia's efforts, Qatar has also announced plans to provide gas to Syria via Jordan to alleviate its electricity shortages, which have been quietly approved by Washington. However, the Saudi Ministry of Finance has declined to confirm the plans, emphasizing that announcements will only be made when official. Additionally, Syria is expected to send a high-level delegation to the upcoming World Bank and IMF meetings in Washington, marking a significant diplomatic engagement since Assad's removal.