Urgent Action Required for U.S. Engagement in Syria’s Recovery

The article argues that the U.S. must decisively engage in Syria to alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by economic sanctions. Following the collapse of Assad’s regime, there exists an opportunity to support the Syrian people directly without recognizing new authorities like HTS. Urgent steps must include scaling up humanitarian aid, lifting sanction restrictions, and restoring World Bank programs to revive basic services.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria necessitates immediate U.S. engagement, particularly given the suffering inflicted on ordinary Syrians due to economic sanctions. Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, an opportunity arises to support the Syrian people directly, bypassing the need for political recognition of new authorities like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Adjustments in U.S. policy could relieve economic hardships without endorsing previous regimes.

Urgent steps are required to alleviate suffering, as maintaining current sanctions only harms the civilian population. Economic collapse has led millions of Syrians to engage in desperate measures, including child labor and early marriage. Moreover, humanitarian assistance, while critical, cannot fundamentally heal the economic devastation or reinstate public services that have eroded due to conflict.

The U.S. must act swiftly to scale up aid and provide legal clarity regarding sanctions. Current policies restrict critical economic activities and fail to provide the comprehensive relief needed. The recent license issued by the Biden administration, although a step forward, is insufficient for broader recovery and does not adequately address the complexities of HTS’s designation.

Furthermore, restoring World Bank programs in Syria is essential for revitalizing basic services. The U.S. should utilize its influence to advocate for a basic needs package that channels assistance through civil society organizations. Ensuring the payment of civil servant salaries is vital to maintain essential health and education services, which have been severely compromised.

Lastly, the U.S. should work towards reintegrating Syria’s financial institutions with the global economy. This requires a reevaluation of current sanctions and addressing the operational gaps in Syrian banking. The U.S. can facilitate this by setting clear benchmarks for financial reforms, aiding Syria’s return to international finance and economic stability.

By implementing these steps, the U.S. can serve as a catalyst for Syrian recovery, reinforcing stability and managing the aftermath of a long-standing conflict. Action must be taken before further deterioration occurs, ensuring that humanitarian aid leads to real economic revival rather than temporary relief. The geopolitical landscape may be complex, but the immediate needs of the Syrian people are clear and pressing.

The Syrian conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, compounded by extensive economic sanctions imposed on the regime led by Bashar al-Assad, which subsequently affected millions of civilians. With the regime’s collapse, opportunities to assist the population directly emerged, necessitating a reevaluation of U.S. policies to ensure that relief reaches those in need without inadvertently legitimizing terror-linked groups like HTS. Restoration of Syria requires careful consideration of the underlying economic and structural issues that have persisted post-conflict.

To effectively aid Syria, the U.S. must reexamine its approach by lifting unnecessary sanctions, reengaging with international financial institutions, and providing direct support for the Syrian populace. Addressing the humanitarian crisis through robust economic programs and reinforcing essential services will not only enhance the stability of the region but also foster an environment conducive to long-term recovery. Swift action is imperative to prevent further deterioration in the humanitarian situation.

Original Source: foreignpolicy.com