UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the immediate removal of all remaining sanctions on Syria, saying the country needs stronger international support to rebuild after more than a decade of war.

Guterres Urges End to Sanctions

Speaking at a press conference in Damascus on Sunday at the end of a two-day visit, Guterres welcomed recent steps to ease sanctions but said all restrictions imposed during the rule of former President Bashar al-Assad should be lifted without delay.

He urged the international community to fully support both the Syrian people and the country's new authorities as they work to rebuild the nation.

Syria Seeks Recovery After Years of War

Syria's current leadership, which took power in December 2024, is seeking to revive the economy and rebuild infrastructure damaged during more than 13 years of conflict.

Although several Western countries, including the United States, have eased sanctions, investment has remained limited. The World Bank estimates Syria's reconstruction will require around $216 billion.

Guterres said Syria needs investment in its economy, institutions, public services, and infrastructure, as well as support to restore livelihoods.

Refugee Return Remains a Priority

The UN chief also emphasized the importance of creating conditions for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of refugees and internally displaced people.

According to the United Nations, around 1.7 million refugees have returned to Syria since the change in government, while approximately 5.5 million people remain displaced inside the country and another 6 million continue to live abroad.

Meetings With Syrian Leaders

During his visit, Guterres met President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, and the speaker of Syria's transitional parliament.

He also held discussions with members of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, representatives of Syrian civil society, women, and youth groups, and visited Sednaya prison, which became notorious under the Assad government.

Concern Over Israeli Operations

Guterres reiterated that Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected, describing violations as unacceptable.

His remarks came after Syrian state media reported an Israeli military incursion and artillery shelling in southern Syria.

Since the fall of the Assad government, Israeli forces have entered the UN-monitored buffer zone in the Golan Heights and carried out repeated military operations deeper inside southern Syria while seeking a broader demilitarized zone.