Brussels, May 18 (SANA) The European Union on Monday removed Syria’s defense and interior ministries from its sanctions list while renewing sanctions on individuals and entities linked to the deposed regime until June 1, 2027.
The decision followed the bloc’s annual review of its Syria sanctions framework.
In a statement, the Council of the European Union said seven Syrian entities were removed from the sanctions list, including the defense and interior ministries, in a move aimed at supporting broader EU engagement with Syria.
The Council recalled that the European Union lifted all economic sanctions on Syria in May 2025 to support a peaceful and inclusive political transition, as well as economic recovery and reconstruction efforts.
However, targeted sanctions remain in place against individuals and entities associated with the deposed regime, alongside measures imposed on security grounds.
The Council said networks linked to the deposed regime continue to retain influence and could pose risks to the transition process, potentially affecting efforts toward national reconciliation and accountability.
Under the sanctions framework, listed individuals remain subject to asset freezes, while EU citizens and companies are prohibited from providing them with funds. Travel bans also remain in effect, preventing entry into or transit through EU member states.
The EU first imposed sanctions on Syria in 2011 in response to the violent repression of civilians by the deposed regime. Following its fall, the Council eased a number of restrictive measures on February 24, 2025, to facilitate engagement with the country, its people, and its businesses.
Recently on May 11, 2026, the Council fully reinstated the EU-Syria Cooperation Agreement, which had been partially suspended in 2011 in response to serious human rights violations committed by the deposed regime.
M.Q.R
