The U.S. Department of the Treasury has issued a six-month general license allowing specific transactions with the Syrian jihadist-led government. The move, they say, aims to ensure basic human needs are met, including public services and humanitarian aid for the Syrian population.
Under Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo explained the decision, stating, “The end of Bashar al Assad’s brutal and repressive regime, which was backed by Russia and Iran, offers a unique opportunity for Syria and its people to rebuild themselves. During this transition period, the Treasury will continue to support humanitarian aid and responsible governance in Syria.”
While Syria remains one of the most heavily sanctioned countries due to the Assad regime’s actions, the Treasury clarified that the authorization does not unfreeze the assets of sanctioned individuals or entities. This includes Assad, his associates, the Syrian Government, the Central Bank of Syria, and the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Labeling the current situation as extraordinary, the Treasury emphasized its commitment to aiding Syrians in building a more secure and peaceful future. However, the decision comes with strict limitations, ensuring sanctioned individuals and organizations like HTS remain restricted.
In a related development, the Biden administration recently withdrew a $10 million reward for information on HTS leader Ahmed Hussein al-Shara, also known as Abu Mohamed al-Golani. Al-Golani, regarded as the de facto leader in Syria following Assad’s fall, remains a contentious figure despite the lifted reward.
This temporary easing of sanctions reflects the U.S.’s effort to balance humanitarian priorities with its broader strategy in the region. Whether this adjustment will pave the way for lasting change in Syria remains to be seen.
