U.S. Suspends Sanctions Against Syria for Six Months

The U.S. has suspended its sanctions against Syria for six months regarding transactions related to earthquake relief efforts. This was reported by Armenpress, citing a license published by the U.S. Department of the Treasury on February 9.

"The U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control has issued General License No. 23 for Syria, allowing for all transactions aimed at mitigating the effects of the earthquake for 180 days, which would otherwise be prohibited under Syria sanctions regulations," the document states.

The financial agency clarified that this regime will be in effect until 12:01 PM Eastern Standard Time on August 8, 2023. This specifically pertains to the transfer of funds to and from Syria.

“While foreign allies and humanitarian partners are rallying to help those affected, I want to clarify that U.S. sanctions will not impede efforts to save lives in Syria,” stated U.S. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo.

He noted that U.S. sanctions against Syria previously included certain exceptions related to humanitarian assistance provided by the U.S., the United Nations, and non-governmental organizations. The license does not apply to activities involving the sale of Syrian oil and petroleum products in the United States. Additionally, it does not pertain to individuals whose assets have previously been classified by U.S. authorities as 'blocked property.'