UN official: Lifting sanctions on Syria could enhance relief and recovery efforts.

Edim and Sorno, Director of Operations and Advocacy at the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, expressed expectations that lifting American and European sanctions on Syria would support relief, recovery, and development operations, emphasizing that the country still faces massive humanitarian needs.

This came during a press conference held via video in Geneva, with the UN News Center quoting Sorno as saying: "I have sensed a renewed hope among the Syrian people after years of suffering and hardship, with an encouraging trend of refugees and internally displaced persons returning since December 2024, where over a million internally displaced persons have returned to their original areas, and over half a million refugees from neighboring countries."

However, the UN official pointed out challenges hindering the return of displaced persons and refugees, such as "insufficient basic services, lack of livelihood opportunities, and the danger of unexploded ordnance," stressing the need to address these obstacles to ensure a safe and sustainable return.

Sorno explained that humanitarian operations continue despite increasing challenges, noting that "16.5 million people in Syria are in need of humanitarian assistance and protection," while the United Nations and its partners reach 2.4 million people monthly through local and cross-border relief programs.