By Aysu Bicer
LONDON (AA) - The Council of the EU announced on Tuesday the extension of restrictive measures against the Syrian regime and its supporters until June 1, 2025, due to the ongoing deteriorating situation in Syria.
The sanctions, initially imposed in 2011, aim to address the violent repression of the civilian population by the Assad regime.
Currently, the sanctions affect 316 individuals and 86 entities, all subject to asset freezes and a prohibition on receiving funds from EU citizens and companies.
Additionally, persons on the sanction list are banned from entering or transiting through EU territories.
The council has, however, removed five deceased persons and another individual from the list following a review.
In light of the severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the Feb. 2023 earthquake in Türkiye and Syria, the council has also decided to extend the humanitarian exemption introduced in Feb. 2023.
This measure ensures the continued timely delivery of humanitarian assistance and aligns the EU sanctions with those adopted at the United Nations level.
The council expressed deep concern about the ongoing conflict in Syria, which has persisted for over 13 years and continues to cause widespread suffering and instability.
"The council also recalls that the Syrian regime continues to pursue a policy of repression and violations of human rights," it said.