Geopolitical Briefing: Syria
20 June 2025
- Switzerland lifted major economic sanctions on Syria, removing 24 entities including the central bank to promote economic recovery after Assad’s fall.(reuters.com)
- Syria executed its first international SWIFT bank transfer since the civil war, connecting with an Italian bank, signaling reconnection to global finance.(reuters.com)
- Iraq reopened the Qaim border crossing with Syria, resuming trade and passenger traffic since its closure during the conflict.(reuters.com)
- The UN highlighted fragile returns of displaced Syrians, noting over 2 million returns since December but warning lack of infrastructure may reverse progress.(apnews.com)
- A decree mandating burkinis at public beaches was issued, reflecting a shift toward conservative Islamic social norms.(reuters.com)
Switzerland lifts sanctions (20 June 2025)
Switzerland’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria’s central bank and others marks a major economic thaw. This move follows parallel actions by the EU and U.S. It reduces financial isolation, expands access to trade in precious metals and luxury goods, and aids economic recovery. It enhances the government's economic independence from Western constraints and deepens regional integration with Muslim-majority states.(reuters.com)
First SWIFT transaction (19 June 2025)
The inaugural SWIFT-based transaction with an Italian bank signals Syria's re-entry into the global banking framework. Plans for U.S. bank connections are in motion. Rejoining Western financial infrastructure advances sovereignty, facilitates reconstruction financing, and reduces reliance on Turkey and Gulf flows.(reuters.com)
Qaim crossing reopens (14 June 2025)
Reopening Syria–Iraq's Qaim border facilitates cargo and civilian movement after joint security assessments. It marks practical reintegration with a neighbouring Muslim country and strengthens Syria's political autonomy and control over cross-border ties.(reuters.com)
Fragile refugee returns (20 June 2025)
UNHCR warned that while 2 million displaced Syrians have returned since December, rebuilding housing, schools, utilities, and security remains insufficient. Absent sustained international funding, these returns risk reversal, undermining the government's stability and unity. The lack of donor support threatens internal cohesion.(apnews.com)
Conservative social policy (9 June 2025)
The new government's decree requiring burkinis at public beaches and modest swimwear aligns with rising Islamic norms and moves away from the secular traditions of the Assad era. It reflects a societal shift that reinforces religious identity, reduces Western influence, and strengthens internal cohesion among the pro‑Palestinian populace.(reuters.com)
