EU to Gradually Ease Sanctions on Syria's Transportation and Energy Sectors on Monday

Jan 24, 2025, 04:39 PM

The European Union is poised to ease sanctions on Syria, marking a significant shift in policy following the fall of Bashar Assad's regime. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has indicated that the sanctions will be lifted gradually and can be reversed if necessary. The move is contingent on positive developments from the new Syrian government, led by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The EU aims to support Syria's political transition, influence its new leaders, and curb Russian influence in the region. The easing of sanctions is expected to begin with sectors such as transportation and energy, with discussions among EU foreign ministers scheduled for Monday. Additionally, the United States has been sharing secret intelligence with the new Syrian government to counter threats from the Islamic State, reflecting a pragmatic approach to the new political reality in Syria.