Washington: US reports indicated that the country’s authorities intend to ease restrictions on sending humanitarian aid to Syria, and to accelerate the delivery of essential supplies without lifting the restrictions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, such a measure confirms the White House’s caution regarding lifting broad sanctions against Syria until the “course of action” for its new leaders becomes clearer. Unnamed officials mentioned that the administration of US President Joe Biden agreed to ease the restrictions over the weekend.

The Wall Street Journal reported: “The limited measure approved by the US administration… allows the Treasury Department to issue exemption permits to humanitarian groups and companies that provide essential services, such as providing water, electricity and other humanitarian supplies.” The officials added that easing the restrictions will free aid providers from having to obtain permission on a case-by-case basis. They also stated that such a measure includes conditions to ensure that Syria does not use the shipment “for other purposes.”

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken plans to meet in Rome with European foreign ministers on Syria, as the West seeks to reach out to the new Syrian leadership.