The United States has recently decided to ease certain restrictions on the transitional government in Syria. This change aims to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid into the country following the recent ousting of former President Bashar Assad by Islamist insurgents.
On Monday, the U.S. Treasury Department issued a general license that will be in effect for six months. This license allows for specific transactions with the new Syrian government, which includes some permits for energy sales and incidental transactions. It’s important to note that while the sanctions remain in place due to the ongoing conflict, this move reflects a limited acknowledgment of support for the new transitional authority.
According to the Treasury Department, the license is designed to ensure that U.S. sanctions do not hinder efforts to meet basic human needs, such as humanitarian assistance and public services. Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo reaffirmed that the agency will continue to back humanitarian efforts and responsible governance in Syria.
Following Assad’s removal, the leaders of the new de facto authorities in Syria have expressed intentions to create an inclusive government open to cooperation with the global community. As the Biden administration loosens some restrictions, it highlights changing dynamics in the region since Assad has sought protection in Russia.
In a notable shift, the U.S. has also rescinded a $10 million bounty for a Syrian rebel leader following meetings that took place in Damascus. This meeting included the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group previously linked to al-Qaida, and senior U.S. diplomats. HTS played a key role in the recent insurgency against Assad, which put an end to his decades-long rule.
Assad’s administration previously faced wide international condemnation due to its brutal actions against protesters and its involvement in narcotics trade. Many countries severed ties with Syria and imposed sanctions on the regime and its allies as a result.
With the oppressive regime overthrown, the newly established authorities are optimistic that international support will flow into Syria to help rebuild the country’s damaged infrastructure and revitalize its economy. The nation has faced significant challenges, with extensive power outages and an alarming 90% of its people living in poverty. Many families struggle daily to secure food amidst rising inflation.
There is growing concern regarding the impact of sanctions on humanitarian efforts, especially after a devastating earthquake in early 2023 that strained resources further. Critics argue that the current sanctions may hinder necessary humanitarian work, urging for a reconsideration of these policies to avoid pushing Syria back into chaos.
A research fellow at the Atlantic Council suggested there is a consensus among international entities on the need for positive engagement with Syria moving forward, emphasizing that rebuilding efforts require cooperation and support from the global community.
