![Syria’s Defence Minister, Ali Mahmoud Abbas in Tehran [IRANIAN PRESIDENCY/Anadolu Agency]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/AA-20230125-30087096-30087095-EBRAHIM_RAISIALI_MAHMOUD_ABBAS_MEETING_IN_IRAN.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1)
The European Union yesterday imposed sanctions on former Syrian Defence Minister, Ali Mahmoud Abbas, and Army Chief of Staff, Abdel Karim Mohammad Ibrahim.
It said the move comes as “Both are responsible for the actions of the armed forces under their command, that commit systematic and widespread torture, rape, as well as sexual and gender-based violence against civilians.”
Those listed under the sanctions regime are subject to an asset freeze, and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to them or for their benefit, is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the EU applies to the persons listed, it explained.
The move comes as part of the EU Council’s Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime, which applies to acts such as genocide, crimes against humanity and other serious human rights violations or abuses.
Two other people were sanctioned, one from Russia and the other from North Korea and two entities; one from Haiti and another in North Korea.