Syria has completed its first international bank transfer via SWIFT since the outbreak of its civil war, marking a symbolic reentry into the global financial system, officials confirmed Thursday.

Central Bank Celebrates Post-War Economic Breakthrough

Syria’s Central Bank Governor Abdelkader Husriyeh told Reuters that on Sunday, a commercial transaction was successfully made to an Italian bank using the SWIFT system, the global standard for international banking communication.

"The door is now open to more such transactions," Husriyeh stated in Damascus, calling the move a critical step in reconnecting Syria with global commerce after over a decade of economic isolation.

Damascus Seeks Normalization After Assad’s Ouster

The transaction is the first since Syria’s 14-year conflict effectively cut it off from international banking channels. Following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, the interim authorities have sought to restore basic economic functionality, including financial transparency and access to global markets.

A drone photograph released from Damascus showed the Central Bank headquarters still operating under new management.

Implications for Trade and Sanctions

While the SWIFT transfer may appear minor, it symbolizes broader aspirations: unlocking trade, attracting investment, and loosening long-standing Western financial barriers. Observers believe this move could encourage limited transactions from European partners, starting with humanitarian and low-risk commercial sectors.

However, sanctions still restrict many financial interactions, and further normalization depends on political guarantees and stability under Syria's transitional government.