Qatar is set to supply Syria with natural gas through Jordan, with the approval of the United States. This move marks a significant shift in regional dynamics, as Qatar was previously one of the most vocal critics of the deposed Bashar al-Assad regime and a staunch supporter of opposition forces that have since taken control of Syria.
Under the agreement, the gas will be transferred via a pipeline from Jordan to Syria’s Deir Ali power plant in the south. This could provide a much-needed boost to Syria’s energy sector, increasing the country’s power supply by up to 400 megawatts. Khalifa Abdullah Al Sharif, the Qatari Charge d’affaires in Syria, explained that the plan is aimed at increasing Syria’s overall power capacity to around 4,000 megawatts, starting with an initial addition of 400 MW.
Syria has been grappling with an ongoing energy crisis, exacerbated by Iraq’s decision to halt crude oil deliveries to the country in December. Prior to the suspension, Syria was importing approximately 120,000 barrels of Iraqi crude daily. Fuel shortages and skyrocketing prices have further deepened the crisis, with Iran also ceasing crude oil shipments to Syria following the political changes within the country.
In parallel, the European Union has been exploring the possibility of easing sanctions on Syria’s energy sector. Discussions have centered on lifting restrictions on the importation of crude oil from Syria, as well as on removing bans related to oil and gas technology exports. The EU has also considered delisting Al-Qaeda-linked groups such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as terrorist organizations, a decision that would require approval from the UN Security Council.
The EU has additionally discussed relaxing restrictions on Syrian airlines, including Syrian Arab Airlines, to facilitate civilian flights between the EU and Syria. These discussions reflect a broader international effort to address Syria’s energy challenges and facilitate the country’s recovery following years of conflict.