EU Considers Lifting Sanctions on Syria

The European Union is planning to suspend sanctions on Syria related to energy, transport, reconstruction, and banking transactions, according to a draft statement reviewed by Reuters.

The proposal is expected to be discussed during the EU Foreign Ministers' meeting in Brussels on February 24.

The draft outlines that the EU Council has decided to lift several restrictive measures in key sectors, with the possibility of further easing sanctions in the future, depending on developments in Syria’s political and security landscape.

Last month, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed that member states had agreed on a roadmap to gradually reduce sanctions, while also reserving the right to reinstate them if necessary.

Meanwhile, satellite imagery has revealed that Israel has constructed seven military bases inside recently occupied Syrian territories, following the fall of the Assad regime.

According to a report by Haaretz, images provided by US-based satellite company Planet Labs confirm ongoing Israeli military construction in the occupied areas, including on Mount Hermon.

Reports indicate that Israel began expanding its presence in December 2024, following the collapse of the Syrian government on December 8.

The Israeli military has increased airstrikes on military and infrastructure sites, particularly in the buffer zone and the Golan Heights.

On Tuesday, Israeli drone strikes targeted three tanks in Sa’sa, southern Syria, claiming they belonged to the former Syrian regime.

The Israeli army stated that the attack was part of an effort to neutralize any potential threats near its border. However, Israeli military radio reported that the targeted tanks contained weapons but were not in active use by the new Syrian government.

With the EU reconsidering its stance on Syria and Israel strengthening its military foothold, the region faces uncertain geopolitical shifts that could reshape the post-war landscape.