The EU’s recent decision to ease sanctions on Syria’s oil, gas, and transport sectors is seen as a critical step ahead of a national dialogue aimed at creating a new transitional government. Experts emphasize that lifting sanctions is crucial for Syria’s recovery and that ongoing restrictions continue to strain the economy and humanitarian conditions. While the EU has shown willingness to provide some relief, much remains to be achieved in terms of tangible reforms from the Syrian leadership to ensure sustained support from the international community.
On February 24, the European Union announced it would ease sanctions on Syria’s key sectors, including oil, gas, electricity, and transport. This change preceded a national dialogue set for February 25, where Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, committed to creating an inclusive transitional government. Despite this, full sanctions relief remains uncertain as Western leaders question the capability of the new government to enact meaningful reforms.
Al-Sharaa leads an interim cabinet following the ousting of Bashar Assad, and both he and his ally, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, view the national dialogue as a pivotal step toward establishing democratic governance and rebuilding the war-torn nation. Opponents of the upcoming reforms argue that preparations were rushed, yet the event managed to attract around 600 delegates, highlighting a significant move toward drafting a new constitution and economic roadmap.
Experts and human rights organizations argue that lifting sanctions is crucial for Syria’s recovery. Nanar Hawach from the International Crisis Group stated that easing restrictions is necessary to promote stability and support a political transition. Ibrahim Al-Assil from the Middle East Institute emphasized that a revitalized middle class is essential for any genuine political movement, only feasible with lifted sanctions.
Human Rights Watch warned that ongoing sanctions hinder essential reconstruction efforts, exacerbating hardships for millions lacking access to basic resources. Many Syrians currently face dire food shortages, with over 16.5 million in need of humanitarian assistance. Karam Shaar from the New Lines Institute stated that the ongoing financial restrictions could lead to imminent economic collapse if not addressed.
The EU has indicated that further sanctions relief will depend on the new administration’s performance and commitment to reforms, signaling readiness to reinstate sanctions if progress is insufficient. While Al-Sharaa announced the formation of a constitution-drafting committee on March 2, continuing US sanctions pose the greatest challenge to postwar recovery efforts in Syria.
Syria has endured over 40 years of sanctions, with the most severe imposed after the Assad regime’s 2011 crackdown on protests. The strictest sanctions are primarily US-led, severely restricting trade and financial transactions except for humanitarian aid. Following the downfall of Assad, these sanctions have persisted, hampering recovery in a country where nearly 90% of the population now lives below the poverty line.
On January 6, the US Treasury issued Syria General License No. 24, allowing certain transactions with the transitional government and easing restrictions for energy-related activities, which will expire on July 7, 2025. However, analysts express skepticism over the likelihood of significant easing of sanctions, noting historical precedents where sanctions persisted long after initial intentions shifted.
Despite increased calls for crucial financial transactions to assist Syria’s recovery, the glove of sanctions continues to inhibit meaningful support, thereby risking renewed violence and instability. Concerns include how the future of Syria’s governance will unfold under Al-Sharaa, considering pressure from both conservative allies and moderate forces, which could impact term stability.
The future of Syria hinges significantly on the potential lifting of sanctions, which many experts believe is essential for economic recovery and political stability. The EU’s recent easing of restrictions, paired with cautious stipulations for the interim government, marks a tentative step forward. However, without comprehensive international support and a commitment to reform from Syrian leadership, the country’s prospects for recovery remain precarious and uncertain.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
