Syria’s war-ravaged oil sector faces tough road to recovery, analysts say

Al JazeeraCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by John PowerJanuary 20, 2026 at 11:56 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Following a ceasefire deal in January 2026, the Syrian government regained control of key oil and gas fields in the northeast from the SDF, including the al-Omar oilfield and Conoco gas complex. This takeover raises hopes for revitalizing Syria's war-ravaged energy sector, which has been hampered by years of conflict and sanctions. Syria holds significant oil and gas reserves, but production has been disrupted since 2011. Experts say that while regaining control of these assets is strategically important, Damascus faces challenges in restoring production due to damaged infrastructure, unregulated extraction, and underinvestment. Initial recovery efforts are likely to prioritize gas production due to its link to electricity generation.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Qatar 30% United States 40% Qamishli 40% Deir Az Zor 40% Raqqa 40% Hasakah 40% Conoco 50% Ahmad al-Dahik 60% Al-Omar Oilfield 60% Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) ×470% Syrian Government ×380% Syria ×1090%

Keywords

syria 100% oil sector 90% energy reserves 80% oil production 70% sdf 70% economic recovery 60% gas fields 60% fossil fuel reserves 50% infrastructure damage 50% international sanctions 40%