In a recent meeting held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, influential European diplomats were encouraged to consider lifting sanctions imposed on Syria. This call came during discussions regarding the future of Syria, especially following the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad. The gathering saw participation from both European and Middle Eastern officials who are concerned about the direction in which the country is headed after years of conflict.
The United States, along with European nations, has expressed hesitation regarding the new rulers in Syria, who are primarily former insurgents with Islamist ties. They indicated that any lift of sanctions hinges on the progress made in the political transition process within Syria. The interim government, led by these former rebels, has pledged to move towards a more pluralistic and inclusive governance system. In light of the devastation caused by the war, which has reportedly claimed around 500,000 lives and displaced nearly half of Syria’s prewar population of 23 million, they are actively seeking international support for reconstruction efforts. The newly appointed Syrian foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, represented the interim government at this conference.
During the conference, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the necessity of maintaining sanctions on Assad’s associates involved in serious crimes while advocating for a “smart” approach that would provide immediate relief to the Syrian populace. She announced an increase in German aid, amounting to 50 million euros, to help with food, emergency housing, and medical assistance. The sanctions, which were originally imposed after the brutal crackdown on the 2011 uprising against Assad, include restrictions on financial transactions and trade, significantly impacting Syria’s economy. While there are exemptions for humanitarian aid, organizations have often faced challenges due to excessive compliance from financial institutions, complicating their work on the ground.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan expressed his concerns about how continued international and unilateral sanctions could obstruct the ambitions of the Syrian people, particularly regarding their goals for development and reconstruction. He noted the positive steps taken by the interim government towards a political process that would involve diverse segments of the Syrian population.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also participated in the discussions, affirming that European nations seek a government in Syria that reflects its diverse religious and ethnic makeup. She stressed the importance of including women in this political process. Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan voiced Turkey’s commitment to assist Syria in reestablishing its connections with the international community and highlighted the need to balance international expectations with the realities facing the new administration. He assured that Turkey stands ready to support the new government, particularly in addressing threats posed by the Islamic State group.
In a related development, the United States recently relaxed some restrictions on Syria. The U.S. Treasury granted a six-month general license that allows certain interactions with the Syrian government, including energy transactions. Additionally, the U.S. lifted a $10 million bounty on Ahmad al-Sharaa, a pivotal Syrian rebel leader associated with the overthrow of Assad, who voiced a commitment to establishing an inclusive Syria respecting the rights of all its communities. The rebels gained momentum in their campaign against Assad, culminating in his ousting on December 8, ultimately ending the long-standing control of his family.
With Assad no longer in power, there is a renewed hope from the new authorities in Syria that the international community will invest in revitalizing the country’s infrastructure and economy, which has been shattered by years of war and conflict.
