On Tuesday evening, the Council of the European Union announced the lifting of economic sanctions on Syria, marking a significant development in the region. The EU has stood in solidarity with the Syrian people for the past 14 years, working towards finding a political solution and providing financial aid while imposing sanctions on the Assad regime. Following the fall of the Assad regime, the EU has gradually and reversibly shifted its strategy to support Syria’s transition and economic recovery. In February of this year, the EU temporarily suspended some economic sanctions on Syria.
The statement emphasized the need for the Syrian people to come together to rebuild a new, inclusive, diverse, peaceful, and free from foreign interference Syria. The EU remains committed to playing a leading role in Syria’s early recovery and future reconstruction in accordance with local developments.
Last week, during his visit to the Middle East, US President Trump announced the lifting of sanctions on Syria ahead of a meeting with interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Al-Sharaa, who leads the Syrian opposition group “HTS,” came to power after overthrowing the Assad regime. The Assad regime’s brutal crackdown on democratic protests in 2011 sparked a civil war and led to international sanctions.
The EU stated in their recent announcement that they will maintain sanctions related to the Assad regime to hold them accountable and to uphold sanctions based on security reasons, including weapons and technology that could be used for internal suppression. Additionally, the EU will implement additional targeted restrictive measures against individuals and entities involved in human rights violations and contributing to Syria’s instability.
The EU will continue to monitor the situation on the ground, including accountability for recent violent incidents and the impact of the decision. The Council will remain vigilant on matters related to Syria’s restrictive measures and sanctions.
Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani expressed at a press conference that the EU’s actions demonstrate the international community’s support for Syria and that today, the Syrian people have a crucial opportunity to rebuild their nation.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated, “We hope to give the new leadership a real chance… in return, we expect the country to implement inclusive politics – allowing all communities and religious groups to participate.”