Canada Shifts Gears on Syria: What the Recent Sanctions Changes Mean
Canada has significantly altered its approach to sanctions against Syria, signaling a major shift in policy following the complete of the Assad regime in December 2024. Recent amendments, announced on February 18, 2026, lift broad economic prohibitions that were in place since 2011, while simultaneously introducing new measures targeting individuals responsible for human rights violations and destabilizing activities. This complex recalibration reflects a broader international trend towards re-engagement with Syria, but with a continued focus on accountability.
From Blanket Sanctions to Targeted Measures
For over a decade, Canada imposed sweeping economic sanctions on Syria in response to the civil war and the Assad regime’s actions. These sanctions aimed to pressure the government to end violence and respect human rights. However, with the collapse of the Assad regime and the formation of a transitional government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, Canada began to reassess its strategy.
In March 2025, Canada initially suspended economic sanctions. This was followed by the removal of Syria from the list of states supporting terrorism in December 2025, and the revocation of the terrorist designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham. The latest changes, implemented on February 18, 2026, build on this trend by removing 24 entities and one individual from the sanctions list. These include key Syrian banks, petroleum companies, and media outlets.
New Criteria for Sanctions: Focusing on Accountability
While lifting broad sanctions, Canada isn’t abandoning its commitment to holding individuals accountable for past and ongoing abuses. The amended regulations introduce two new criteria for imposing sanctions: involvement in grave and systematic human rights violations, and activities that undermine the peace, security, or stability of Syria.
Six individuals have already been sanctioned under these new criteria: Sayf Boulad Abu Bakr, Mohammad al-Jassim, Ghaith Suleiman Dalla, Miqdad Fatiha, Mudalal Khoury, and Imad Khoury. These individuals are linked to armed groups and financial support for the former regime.
Economic Re-engagement and Reconstruction
The removal of sanctions on key Syrian economic entities is intended to facilitate reconstruction and economic recovery. The lifting of restrictions on financial services and transactions with entities like the Central Bank of Syria and major petroleum companies is expected to unlock investment and support essential sectors. This move aligns with the efforts of Syria’s new government to reintegrate into the international community and rebuild its economy.
However, the process won’t be without challenges. The Syrian economy has been devastated by years of conflict, and significant infrastructure damage remains. Political instability and security concerns could also hinder investment and reconstruction efforts.
The Broader Geopolitical Context
Canada’s shift in policy towards Syria is part of a wider trend of re-engagement by G7 nations. The United States, under President Donald Trump, has also taken steps to normalize relations with Syria, including meetings with President al-Sharaa and Syria’s participation in the global coalition against ISIS. This suggests a growing recognition that a purely isolationist approach is not effective in addressing the complex challenges facing Syria.
FAQ
Q: Why did Canada lift sanctions on Syria?
A: Canada lifted broad economic sanctions following the collapse of the Assad regime and the formation of a transitional government, aiming to support economic recovery and re-engagement.
Q: Does this mean Canada is no longer concerned about human rights in Syria?
A: No. Canada has introduced new sanctions criteria specifically targeting individuals involved in human rights violations and activities that undermine stability.
Q: Which entities were removed from the sanctions list?
A: Numerous entities were removed, including Syrian banks, petroleum companies, and media organizations. A full list can be found in the source material.
Q: What is the significance of removing Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham from the terrorist list?
A: This decision reflects a change in assessment of the group’s activities and its stated commitment to distancing itself from extremist ideologies.
Did you know? Canada provided humanitarian aid throughout the Syrian crisis, supporting refugees and internally displaced persons.
Pro Tip: Businesses considering investment in Syria should conduct thorough due diligence to assess risks and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
Explore further insights into Canada’s foreign policy and international relations on our Global Affairs page.
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