Damascus is facing a severe water crisis due to the driest winter in nearly 70 years, reported on May 20, 2025. This comes at a critical time as Syria begins its post-sanctions reconstruction efforts, following the lifting of economic sanctions by the European Union on May 20, 2025, and a similar move by the US the previous week. The sanctions were initially imposed during the rule of President Bashar al-Assad, who was toppled in December 2024.
The water crisis is exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in Syria. As of March 2025, more than 7.4 million Syrians remain internally displaced, with 70% of the population needing humanitarian assistance and 90% living below the poverty line. The drought is expected to further strain resources and increase displacement, particularly in areas already destabilized by conflict.
Despite the lifting of sanctions and the potential for new loans from the World Bank and IMF, the water crisis poses a significant obstacle to Syria’s recovery. The funds will be essential for infrastructure development and humanitarian aid, but addressing the immediate water needs of the population is paramount. The situation demands urgent attention and coordinated efforts from international organizations and local authorities to mitigate the impact of the drought and ensure access to clean water for all Syrians.
Adding to the complex situation, a deadly blast rocked a police station in Al-Mayadeen, Deir az Zor countryside, eastern Syria, on May 18, 2025, killing three people and wounding several others. Additionally, on May 17, 2025, Syrian authorities reported that at least three ISIL fighters were killed and several others detained during raids on ISIL hideouts in Aleppo. These incidents highlight the ongoing security challenges facing the country, even as it attempts to rebuild.
The convergence of the water crisis, the lifting of sanctions, and ongoing security concerns paints a complex picture of Syria’s current state. While the easing of sanctions and potential financial assistance offer a glimmer of hope for reconstruction, the drought and continued instability threaten to undermine these efforts. The international community must address these interconnected challenges to support a sustainable and peaceful future for Syria.
