Post by : Shakul

The European Union has officially extended sanctions against individuals and entities linked to former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for another year until June 1, 2027. The decision came after the EU completed its annual review of sanctions related to Syria.

At the same time, the European Council announced the removal of seven Syrian entities from its blacklist, including the country’s defence and interior ministries. The move is part of the EU’s broader efforts to ease certain restrictions on Damascus following political changes in Syria.

The EU stated that the sanctions extension will continue targeting people associated with the former Assad administration. Those listed under the sanctions remain subject to asset freezes and travel bans, while European citizens and companies are prohibited from providing financial support to them.

European officials said the removal of several institutions from the sanctions list is intended to strengthen engagement with Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in late 2024. Syria’s new administration under President Ahmed al-Sharaa has been seeking international support for rebuilding the country.

Syria’s foreign ministry welcomed the decision to remove sanctions on the seven entities. Officials said the move would help recovery and reconstruction efforts, strengthen state institutions and support stability across the country.

However, Syrian authorities also supported the continuation of sanctions against figures linked to the former Assad regime who were accused of involvement in violations against civilians during the conflict years.

The EU had already lifted most economic sanctions on Syria in May 2025 but kept restrictions on former regime members and security-related entities. European officials believe networks connected to the old government still hold influence and may threaten Syria’s political transition and reconciliation process.

#world news #Global News #Policy