EU Nations Advocate Temporary Suspension of Syria Sanctions Amid Political Shift

Six European Union member states have urged the bloc to temporarily suspend certain sanctions on Syria in sectors like transport, energy, and banking. The proposal, detailed in a document obtained by Reuters, will be discussed at the EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels on January 27.

Call for Adjustments to Sanctions

The initiative, led by Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Finland, and Denmark, suggests relaxing restrictions to facilitate civilian flights, ease the export ban on oil and gas technology, and reopen financial channels between the EU and Syria. The aim is to address humanitarian concerns and foster recovery efforts in the war-torn nation.

The document emphasizes the need for immediate action, stating, “The EU should begin adjusting its sanctions regime to reflect the evolving situation on the ground.”

Political and Humanitarian Context

This proposal follows the ousting of President Bashar Assad by insurgent forces led by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist group classified as a terrorist organization by the United Nations and the United States. The shift in Syria’s political leadership has prompted EU leaders to reconsider their approach to sanctions.

Last week, the United States issued a six-month exemption on certain sanctions to facilitate humanitarian aid. The six EU nations advocate for a similar approach, focusing on easing restrictions while maintaining sanctions on Assad’s associates and supporters.

Conditions for Sanctions Relief

The document underscores that sanctions relief will depend on Syria’s new leadership meeting EU expectations regarding human rights and minority protections. A “snapback mechanism” has been proposed to reinstate sanctions if conditions are not met.

HTS Sanctions Under Review

The proposal acknowledges that lifting sanctions on HTS would require discussions at the United Nations level and coordination with international partners. The decision will depend on developments in Syria and the actions of HTS leader Ahmed Al-Shara’a.

Diplomatic Engagement

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas met with Syria’s new foreign minister, Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani, in Riyadh during a summit of Middle Eastern and Western diplomats.

“Now is the time for Syria’s new leadership to deliver on the hope they have created – through a peaceful and inclusive transition that protects all minorities,” Kallas stated. She confirmed that the EU foreign ministers’ meeting will focus on easing sanctions to support humanitarian efforts.

Next Steps

The EU’s reassessment of its sanctions policy marks a significant shift in its approach to Syria. The outcome of the January 27 meeting will determine the extent of sanctions relief and the bloc’s future strategy in addressing the evolving political and humanitarian landscape in Syria.