UK Lifts Sanctions on Syria’s Defense, Interior Ministries

The United Kingdom has officially lifted sanctions on Syria’s Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, and several intelligence agencies, ending years of asset freezes imposed during the country’s prolonged civil conflict.

The announcement, made on Thursday, comes as Western governments re-evaluate their policies toward Syria in the wake of a dramatic shift in power.

In December, opposition forces led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham succeeded in toppling President Bashar al-Assad after more than 13 years of brutal civil war.

The asset freezes on Syria’s core security institutions were initially imposed in response to the Assad regime’s violent crackdown on civilians and widespread human rights abuses.

Thursday’s decision signals a potential turning point in diplomatic relations, as global powers begin to adjust to a new political landscape in Syria.

While London has not yet confirmed the full scope of its policy shift, analysts suggest the UK is preparing for a broader engagement strategy aimed at stabilizing the region and supporting Syria’s reconstruction under new leadership.

The lifting of sanctions does not automatically restore diplomatic ties but could pave the way for increased humanitarian aid, development assistance, and multilateral cooperation with Syria’s transitional authorities.