UK lifts key sanctions on Syria’s institutions, signals support for post-Assad recovery

LONDON — In a significant diplomatic shift, the British government has lifted sanctions on Syria’s Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, and twelve other entities, including intelligence agencies and media groups. These sanctions, initially imposed during the rule of Bashar al-Assad, targeted institutions linked to repression and human rights violations. However, restrictions on individuals associated with Assad’s regime remain in force.

The decision, announced by the UK’s Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), removes asset freezes from institutions such as the General Intelligence Directorate, Air Force Intelligence Agency, and Political Security Directorate. This move reflects the efforts of Syria’s new leadership to dismantle security structures tied to the Assad era and signals a recalibration of Western policies toward the country.

Sanctions were also lifted from state-affiliated media outlets, including Cham Press TV, Sama TV, and the General Organization of Radio and TV. British officials emphasized that these adjustments aim to support Syria’s post-Assad recovery while maintaining accountability for past atrocities. Hamish Falconer, the UK’s Minister for the Middle East, stated, “The UK is supporting a stable future for the people of Syria while holding Assad’s regime accountable for its atrocities.”

This development follows the UK’s earlier decision in March to unfreeze the assets of Syria’s Central Bank and 23 other entities, including banks and oil companies. The measures align with similar actions taken by the European Union, which recently suspended sanctions on key energy and transport sectors to facilitate Syria’s reconstruction. However, the EU has cautioned that sanctions could be reinstated if Syria’s new leadership fails to establish an inclusive government representing the country’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.

The diplomatic shift follows the swift overthrow of the Assad regime in December 2024 by a coalition of opposition groups led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). In January, HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa was appointed Syrian Transitional President. The new administration has prioritized rebuilding regional and international relations, arguing that sanctions obstruct aid delivery and hinder post-war recovery. Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, expressed gratitude for the UK’s decision, calling it a pivotal step toward rebuilding infrastructure and enhancing security.

As Syria’s new leadership works to restore stability, the lifting of sanctions is seen as a critical step in reviving the nation’s economy and fostering international cooperation. However, significant challenges remain, including addressing internal divisions and ensuring accountability for past abuses.