Calls for Lifting Western Sanctions on Syria Intensify

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has urged the West to lift sanctions on Syria, stating that the country is in dire need of reconstruction and that millions of Syrians are struggling to survive, Arab News reported. Hiba Zayadin, HRW’s senior Syria researcher, emphasized that the sanctions, imposed on the regime of former President Bashar Assad, are hindering recovery efforts and exacerbating humanitarian crises.

The ongoing civil war has devastated Syria’s economy and infrastructure, leaving 90% of the population in poverty, with around 13 million lacking sufficient food and 16.5 million dependent on humanitarian aid. HRW noted that current sanctions, many of which have been in place since 2011, complicate aid delivery despite humanitarian exemptions.

HRW argues that sanctions should be lifted to restore Syria’s access to global financial systems, end trade restrictions on essential goods, and provide legal assurances to businesses. The organization estimates that Syria requires at least $250 billion for reconstruction, focusing on critical infrastructure like healthcare and education.

Zayadin criticized the piecemeal approach to sanctions, stating that they should not disproportionately harm civilians and must be linked to clear conditions for removal. The call for change comes as Western powers propose adjustments to the sanctions regime following Assad’s ouster in December.