UN Migration Agency Welcomes EU, US Sanctions Relief on Syria

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has praised recent EU and US decisions to lift key sanctions on Syria, calling the move a “pivotal step” toward post-war recovery, Anadolu Agency reported. The relief could unlock over [$15 billion] in restricted assets and trade flows, enabling critical investments in infrastructure, housing, and healthcare—sectors decimated by 14 years of conflict.

IOM Director General Amy Pope emphasized the need for “concrete support” alongside sanctions relief, noting Syria’s 6.7 million internally displaced people and 5.2 million refugees abroad require “safe, dignified returns.” The agency highlighted Saudi Arabia and Qatar’s pledge to repay [$15.5 million] in Syrian arrears to the World Bank, funds earmarked for education and health programs.

Damascus’s markets have already seen a surge in activity since the US signaled sanctions easing in mid-May. However, the IOM stressed that sustainable recovery hinges on restoring basic services, legal documentation, and jobs.

“Humanitarian aid remains vital, but we must shift focus to long-term resilience,” Pope said, urging donors to bridge relief with reconstruction. The sanctions rollback marks a potential turning point for Syria’s economy, though challenges persist amid ongoing displacement and infrastructure collapse.