U.S. Eases Aid Restrictions for Syria, Authorizes Transactions with Government Institutions and Energy Supplies

Jan 6, 2025, 06:55 PM

The Biden administration plans to announce on Monday that it will ease restrictions on humanitarian aid for Syria, in a limited show of support for the new government in Damascus following the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad. The U.S. Treasury issued a general license authorizing transactions with Syrian government institutions, including support for salaries. The license permits transactions involving energy supplies, such as petroleum, natural gas, and electricity, as well as personal remittance transactions, including through the Central Bank of Syria. However, the license prohibits any transactions with Russia and Iran. This move aims to speed up the delivery of basic supplies and essential services like electricity and water without lifting the broad sanctions that restrict other assistance to Syria. The license is valid until July 7, 2025, and while sanctions remain in place, the U.S. intends to facilitate humanitarian aid and support for the Syrian people. The U.S. remains cautious about the U.S.-designated terror organization leading the country.