Canada Adjusts Sanctions Regime Related to Syria Following Regime Change
In a significant shift in policy, Canada has recently modified its sanctions related to Syria, reflecting the altered political landscape following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2025. These changes, announced on February 18, 2026, involve removing Syria from its list of state supporters of terrorism and easing several economic restrictions, while simultaneously designating new individuals for human rights violations and activities destabilizing the region. The moves align Canada with similar actions taken by the United States and the United Kingdom, signaling a coordinated international response to the evolving situation in Syria. This complex recalibration of sanctions underscores the delicate balance between supporting stability and accountability in a nation emerging from years of conflict and authoritarian rule.
The decision to alter Canada’s stance on Syria follows a period of prolonged civil war and international sanctions imposed in response to the Assad regime’s violent suppression of pro-democracy protests in 2012. Canada initially listed Syria as a state supporter of terrorism, a designation that triggered a range of economic and political penalties. However, the fall of the Assad government and the subsequent assumption of power by Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former Islamist insurgent leader, prompted a reassessment of this policy. The Canadian government has emphasized its commitment to supporting the Syrian people and fostering a transition towards a more stable and democratic future, and these recent adjustments are presented as steps towards achieving those goals.
Easing of Sanctions and the Role of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham
On December 5, 2025, Canada removed Syria from its list of states that support terrorism, a move formalized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Simultaneously, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group previously designated as a terrorist entity due to its links to Al-Qaeda, was also delisted. This decision, according to the Canadian foreign ministry, was made in conjunction with allies and followed efforts by the Syrian transitional government to promote stability. The delisting of HTS is intended to facilitate collaboration with the new Syrian government, as the group has reportedly sought to distance itself from its violent past and present a more moderate image.
Prior to these changes, Canada had implemented a General Application Permit under the Syria Regulations in February 2025, allowing for the provision of financial and related services to Syria to support democratization, stabilization, and humanitarian aid efforts. This permit, extended in August 2025, was valid until February 23, 2026. However, with the recent modifications to the Syria Regulations, this permit is no longer necessary and will not be renewed. This streamlining of regulations aims to reduce obstacles to economic activity and facilitate transactions with state-affiliated entities in sectors crucial for Syria’s recovery.
New Sanctions and Focus on Human Rights
While many sanctions have been lifted, Canada has not abandoned its commitment to accountability. On February 18, 2026, Canada added 24 entities and one individual to the sanctions list, while removing 24 entities and one individual. The newly designated individuals are accused of serious and systematic human rights violations or activities that undermine peace, security, and stability in Syria. This demonstrates a continued resolve to hold those responsible for abuses accountable, even as Canada seeks to engage with the new Syrian government. The introduction of new criteria for designation allows Canada to target individuals involved in such violations, strengthening its ability to respond to ongoing concerns about human rights and regional stability.
The six individuals newly sanctioned include:
- Sayf Boulad Abu Bakr, former leader of the Hamza Division.
- Mohammad al-Jassim (also known as Abu Amsha and Al-Amshat), former leader of the Sultan Suleiman Shah Brigade.
- Ghaith Suleiman Dalla (also known as Ghiath), former Brigadier General of the Syrian Arab Army and commander of the al-Ghaith forces of the 42nd Brigade, and former leader of a pro-Assad armed group.
- Miqdad Fatiha, former officer of the Syrian Arab Army Republican Guard and current leader of the Coastal Shield Brigade (Dara’ al-Sahel), a pro-Assad armed group.
- Mudalal Khoury, a Syrian-Russian businessman and financier of the Assad regime.
- Imad Khoury, a Syrian-Russian businessman and financier of the Assad regime.
Conversely, Dr. Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar and a duplicate listing of Muahmamd Al-Shaar were removed from the sanctions list. A significant number of entities, including several banks, petroleum companies, media outlets, and Syrian Arab Airlines, were also delisted, aiming to facilitate economic recovery and engagement with the new government. The full list of delisted entities includes the Syrian Commercial Bank, Real Estate Bank, Industrial Bank, Popular Credit Bank, Saving Bank, Agricultural Cooperative Bank, the Central Bank of Syria, and numerous other state-affiliated organizations. Global Affairs Canada provides further details on the updated sanctions regime.
Implications for Syria’s Future and International Relations
These changes in Canada’s sanctions policy represent a calculated risk, balancing the need to support Syria’s reconstruction and stability with the imperative to hold perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable. The move is consistent with a broader trend among Western nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom, to reassess their approach to Syria following the fall of the Assad regime. The goal is to encourage a more inclusive and democratic future for Syria, while also preventing the country from reverting to its former status as a state sponsor of terrorism.
However, the situation remains complex and fragile. The long-term success of these policy adjustments will depend on the Syrian government’s commitment to genuine reform, respect for human rights, and cooperation with the international community. The ongoing presence of armed groups and the potential for renewed conflict pose significant challenges to stability. The economic impact of the sanctions relief remains to be seen, and We see crucial to ensure that aid and investment reach those who need it most.
The Canadian government has stated that it will maintain sanctions on 56 Syrian individuals, including former officials from the Assad regime and members of the Assad family. This demonstrates a continued commitment to pursuing accountability for past abuses and preventing those responsible from benefiting from the new political order. The situation will continue to be monitored closely, and Canada will adjust its policies as necessary to respond to evolving circumstances.
Key Takeaways
- Canada has removed Syria from its list of state supporters of terrorism following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad.
- Several economic sanctions have been eased to facilitate Syria’s reconstruction and engagement with the international community.
- New sanctions have been imposed on individuals accused of human rights violations and activities undermining stability.
- The changes align Canada with similar actions taken by the United States and the United Kingdom.
- Canada remains committed to accountability for past abuses and will continue to sanction individuals linked to the former regime.
The next significant development to watch will be the implementation of the new sanctions criteria and the ongoing monitoring of the human rights situation in Syria. Canada’s approach will likely be shaped by the actions of the Syrian government and the broader regional context. Readers are encouraged to share their perspectives and engage in constructive dialogue on this essential issue.