Japan announced on Friday a partial easing of its sanctions on Syria, including the removal of at least four Syrian banks from its asset freeze list, in a move aimed at supporting regional stability and humanitarian improvement following political changes in the country.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed the decision during a press briefing, stating that the Japanese government conducted a comprehensive review after the fall of the Baath regime in late 2024.

“This step reflects Japan’s commitment to supporting constructive efforts for international peace and to improving living conditions for the Syrian people,” Hayashi said.

He added that Japan will continue coordinating with G7 partners and other international stakeholders to promote lasting peace and stability in Syria.

According to Japan’s national broadcaster, the first phase of the sanctions relief includes the removal of the Popular Credit Bank, the Savings Bank, the Industrial Bank, and the Agricultural Cooperative Bank from the asset freeze list.

The move marks Japan’s first softening of its Syria policy since the outbreak of the civil conflict and comes amid growing international reassessments of diplomatic and economic measures toward Damascus in light of recent developments.