Rights group calls for lifting sanctions on Syria after fall of Assad regime

ISTANBUL

A human rights group on Monday urged the removal of economic and political sanctions on Syria in the wake of the Assad regime's collapse.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) emphasized that while the sanctions were initially imposed to hold the regime accountable for crimes against humanity, they now risk hindering Syria’s recovery efforts.

"Continuing to impose these sanctions may turn them from instruments of accountability into obstacles to Syrian recovery," the SNHR said, citing urgent needs for rebuilding infrastructure, restoring essential services, and facilitating the return of refugees and internally displaced persons.

The independent monitoring group, which had long supported sanctions targeting individuals complicit in human rights violations, advocates maintaining restrictions on about 300 figures from the former regime, including Bashar al-Assad and key associates.

"Sanctions on these individuals must remain to ensure accountability and prosecution for their crimes," the SNHR noted.

The human rights group urged the international community to tie the lifting of sanctions on state institutions to transparent monitoring mechanisms, ensuring funds are not misused by corrupt entities.

Recommendations include reforms to financial institutions, international support for reconstruction, and collaboration with civil society organizations to foster transparency and justice.

The SNHR also called for the new Syrian government to prioritize human rights and accountability, stating that these steps are essential for a stable and just transition.

Assad, who ruled Syria with an iron fist for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8 after anti-regime groups seized control of Damascus.

The takeover came after Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) fighters captured key cities across the country in a lightning offensive that lasted less than two weeks.