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UN Envoy Calls for Lifting Sanctions on Syria Amid Leadership Transition
A United Nations representative emphasized the urgency of lifting Western sanctions on Syria during a visit to the capital on Sunday. This appeal comes as the nation begins to navigate a new political landscape following the recent ousting of President Bashar Assad, an event marked by profound internal and international implications.
For many years, Syria has been subjected to severe sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union, and other entities. These sanctions were enacted in response to Assad’s violent crackdown on peaceful protests in 2011, which escalated into a protracted civil war.
The coalition that has displaced Assad now faces the daunting task of rebuilding a nation heavily burdened by stringent international sanctions, which have exacerbated Syria’s already frail economic conditions. The transitional leadership that has emerged is still working to establish a cohesive governance strategy, while also contending with the fact that the principal force behind this change, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is still categorized as a terrorist organization by the United States.
Geir Pedersen, the U.N. envoy to Syria, stated in a press conference that a swift alleviation of sanctions will be instrumental in stabilizing the country after the tumult of recent events. “We can hopefully see a quick end to the sanctions so that we can see really a rallying around building of Syria,” he remarked.
In major urban centers, the scars of conflict remain evident, with portions of infrastructure severely damaged or entirely destroyed. The ongoing sanctions have impeded reconstruction efforts, aiming to restrict the rebuilding in areas controlled by the government as long as a political resolution remains elusive.
During his visit to Damascus, Pedersen engaged with officials from the new interim government formed by the former opposition factions, prominently led by HTS. The Biden administration has indicated it may reconsider HTS’s terrorist designation, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken announcing that U.S. officials have been in direct discussions with its leadership.
Over the weekend, Blinken convened an emergency meeting in Jordan, garnering support from foreign ministers of the Arab League, Turkey, and senior representatives from the European Union and United Nations. Discussions focused on the framework for governing Syria following decades of Assad’s rule.
The consensus emerged that the new leadership must prioritize the rights of minorities and women, thwart the emergence of extremist groups, ensure humanitarian assistance is delivered to affected populations, and address any remaining stockpiles of chemical weapons from Assad’s era. Blinken assured those present that the U.S. would extend recognition and support to a new government that adheres to these core principles.
A recent communication from President Biden with G7 leaders also touched upon the necessity of initiating a political transition that is both Syrian-led and inclusive of all citizens.
As the Biden administration’s tenure nears its conclusion, uncertainty looms over what stance President-elect Donald Trump will adopt regarding Syria.
The interim administration is expected to govern until March but has not clarified the trajectory for establishing a more permanent government structure. Pedersen reiterated the need for a political process characterized by Syrian leadership. He urged for accountability regarding wartime atrocities and called upon the international community to increase humanitarian support.
A sign of the populace’s desire for stability and normalcy emerged over the weekend, as schools in Damascus reopened for the first time since the recent insurgent advance into the city. At the Nahla Zaidan school, the revolutionary three-star flag was raised in lieu of the former regime’s two-star banner.
“Syria is trying to build up this country with these children who came. Although I think some of them are afraid, they came to build Syria and to live the victories of this country,” stated Maysoun Al-Ali, the school director. “God willing, there will be more development, more security, and more construction in this beloved country.”
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