On January 13, 2025, in Riyadh, the European Union (EU) announced plans to reduce sanctions imposed on Syria over the past thirteen years. This decision follows the fall of Bashar al-Assad and the establishment of a new government led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative, confirmed the intention to ease sanctions during a high-level meeting attended by foreign ministers and officials from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, as well as representatives from the United Nations and the Arab League.
Kallas stated, "It is time for the new Syrian leaders to fulfill the hope they have created through a peaceful and inclusive transition that protects all minorities." The EU will discuss the specifics of sanction adjustments in an upcoming meeting of foreign ministers scheduled for January 27.
Countries like Germany, Italy, and France have expressed support for a gradual withdrawal of sanctions. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need for a "smart approach to sanctions" that would provide relief to the Syrian people amid the transition of power.
Since the crackdown on protests by al-Assad's regime in 2011, the EU and its allies, including the US, have imposed sanctions on Syria, targeting 318 individuals and 86 entities. Current sanctions include bans on importing Syrian crude oil and petroleum products, investing in the Syrian oil industry, and restrictions on exporting equipment that could be used for internal repression.
The proposed easing of sanctions aims to alleviate the economic and social impact on Syria, providing the new government with an opportunity to stabilize the country.