📰 Canada removes Syria, HTS from terrorism-related lists

QAMISHLI, syria/" class="auto-internal-link">syria (North Press) – Canada declared on Friday the removal of Syria from its List of Foreign State Supporters of Terrorism and the delisting of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from its List of Terrorist Entities, following what authorities described as an extensive review of Ottawa’s counterterrorism designations. The decisions were unveiled on Dec. 4 by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, who stressed that the measures reflect evolving conditions in Syria after the collapse of the Assad regime and the emergence of a transitional administration. as per the ministers, the review aligned Canada’s policies with latest steps taken by allies, including the United States and the United Kingdom, and aimed to backing the syrian-authorities-announce-seizure-of-anti-aircraft-missiles-in-deir-ez-zor/" class="smart-internal-link" title="📰 Syrian authorities announce seizure of anti-aircraft missiles in Deir ez-Zor">syrian/" class="auto-internal-link">syrian transitional administration’s efforts to stabilize the country, advance an inclusive political transition, and work with international partners against extremist threats.

Indeed, “Canada welcomes the positive steps taken by the Syrian transitional government since the end of the Assad regime towards a peaceful Syrian-led political transition,” stated Anand, reaffirming Ottawa’s commitment to syrians’ aspirations for “an inclusive, stable and prosperous future. ” Anandasangaree stated Canada would continue to monitor security developments and act against any threats posed by the Islamic State (ISIS) and al-Qaeda. “The safety and security of Canadians will remain paramount,” he added. Despite the changes, Canada emphasized that sanctions and accountability mechanisms remain in force. Additionally, ottawa continues to sanction 225 individuals and 56 entities tied to the former Syrian government and maintains cooperation with international accountability bodies, including the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM).

The delisting of HTS follows a statutory review of 18 designated terrorist entities; 17 others remain listed under Canada’s Criminal Code. Moreover, canada designated Syria as a Foreign State Supporter of Terrorism in 2012 under the State Immunity Act. The designation came amid escalating international pressure and coordinated sanctions by Western states in response to the Assad regime’s use of systematic hostilities, including mass detention, torture, and attacks on civilians.

By Jwan Shekaki