UK sanctions Syrian militias over violence against civilians

The United Kingdom announced fresh sanctions targeting senior Syrian regime figures and allied militias, accusing them of violence against civilians in Syria. The measures reflect London’s ongoing push for accountability amid the country’s long and deadly conflict.

Sanctions details

London said it would freeze the assets of three armed groups and four senior commanders tied to pro‑regime forces, along with two businessmen who provided financial backing to the Assad administration. In addition to asset freezes, the package includes travel bans and prohibitions on serving as UK company directors.

Who is targeted

• Ghaith Dalla — former senior regime military commander and leader of a pro‑regime militia
• Miqdad Fatiha — former regime commander and head of another pro‑regime militia
• Mohammad al‑Jasim — commander of the Sultan Suleiman Shah militia
• Sayf Boulad — commander of the Hamza Division militia
• Mudallal Khoury — a Syria–Russia linked businessman financing the Assad regime
• Imad Khoury — a Syria–Russia linked businessman financing the Assad regime

Groups hit by the sanctions

The asset freezes also extend to the Sultan Murad Division, the Sultan Suleiman Shah Division, and the Hamza Division.

Background and official statements

The measures come as part of a broader effort to hold those responsible for violence in Syria to account. The Foreign Secretary said accountability is essential to securing a peaceful and lasting political settlement, while Labour figure Yvette Cooper added that the sanctions send a clear message to actors who threaten Syria’s future. She also highlighted the UK’s commitment to supporting a recovery that benefits all citizens.

Context

Earlier this year, the UK lifted asset freezes on some Syrian state bodies, including government ministries and the central bank, after a regime change. In July, the foreign secretary visited Syria and held talks with interim leaders on stabilization and reconstruction.

Expert perspective

Expert comment: Analysts view the sanctions as an effort to cut off funding for militias and press for a more inclusive political process in Syria. The impact, however, will depend on international cooperation and enforcement.

Summary

In short, the UK has targeted key military leaders, militia groups, and financiers tied to the Assad regime with asset freezes and travel bans. The move underscores London’s stance on accountability and aims to support Syria’s economic recovery and a political transition that includes all citizens. The sanctions come alongside ongoing diplomacy in a region shaped by decades of conflict.

Key insight: Sanctions are aimed at cutting off both leaders and financial backers to curb violence and push for accountability in Syria. Source: BBC News

Discover the latest news and current events in World News as of 19-12-2025. The article titled " UK sanctions Syrian militias over violence against civilians " provides you with the most relevant and reliable information in the World News field. Each news piece is thoroughly analyzed to deliver valuable insights to our readers.

The information in " UK sanctions Syrian militias over violence against civilians " helps you make better-informed decisions within the World News category. Our news articles are continuously updated and adhere to journalistic standards.