Japan lifts sanctions on 16 Syrian entities to support reconstruction
Japan has lifted sanctions on 16 Syrian entities to support the country's reconstruction after the 2024 collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced in Tokyo.
Japan decided on Tuesday to further ease its sanctions on Syria, lifting measures against 16 entities in an effort to support the country’s reconstruction following the 2024 collapse of former president Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Kyodo News reports.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced the decision at a regular press conference in Tokyo, saying the move was intended to back the Syrian government’s efforts to bring stability to the country.
“Many of the organizations on which sanctions have been lifted are expected to play a part in Syria’s reconstruction. Stability and development in Syria are directly linked to stability across the Middle East,” Kihara said.
Sanctions remain in place on 59 individuals and 15 entities, he said.
Japan first imposed sanctions against Syria in 2011, with the measures eventually targeting 59 individuals and 35 organisations. In May 2025 it lifted sanctions on four entities, in line with moves by the international community to support a stable transition.
The United States and the European Union have also moved to lift sanctions against Syria.
Sources
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