• Mou Mou
• 24 Feb, 2025

In a major diplomatic shift the European Union has announced the suspension of several sanctions on Syria effective immediately. This decision covers key sectors like energy, banking and transport, aiming to support the country's recovery after the fall of former President Bashar Assad.

Details & Context

The European Union which previously imposed a series of sanctions targeting both individuals and economic sectors in Syria has decided to ease restrictions. The move comes after insurgent forces led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), removed Bashar Assad from power in December.

On Monday during a meeting in Brussels EU foreign ministers agreed to lift sanctions on Syria's energy sector - including oil, gas and electricity - as well as the transport industry.

In addition to this, the EU has

- Unfrozen assets of five major Syrian banks.

- Relaxed limitations on the Syrian central bank.

- Extended the exemption for humanitarian aid indefinitely to ensure smooth delivery of relief materials.

However certain sanctions linked to the Assad regime remain intact. These include restrictions on arms trading dual-use goods (which have both civilian and military applications), surveillance software and the international trade of Syria's cultural heritage items.

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European officials emphasised that they would closely monitor the evolving situation in Syria ensuring that these suspensions align with their broader diplomatic strategy.

The EU’s latest move signals a shift in its approach to Syria - balancing the need for reconstruction while maintaining pressure on elements linked to the former regime. The world now watches how Syria's future unfolds under these revised sanctions.