UN Calls for Lifting Sanctions on Syria

The EU is considering lifting sanctions on Syria following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, with discussions expected at a foreign affairs ministers' meeting on January 27. A non-paper outlines potential changes, including delisting terrorist groups like Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) conditionally, depending on their activities and impacts on terrorism financing. Concurrently, UN human rights chief Volker Türk has called for the removal of Western sanctions, emphasizing the need for transitional justice and rebuilding efforts for the Syrian populace. During his visit to Syria, Türk met with HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, who assured him of commitments to human rights and institutional reform. Türk highlighted the destructive impact of sanctions on civilians and urged a reevaluation of these measures to help the country recover. Both the EU and Türk's statements reflect a shift in approach towards Syria's new leadership and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.