US removes Syria from terrorism sponsor list
Washington ends Syria’s 47-year designation, easing major barrier to investment as Damascus seeks international reintegration
WASHINGTON (MNTV) — The United States has formally removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, ending a designation that had remained in place since 1979 and marking a significant shift in Washington’s relationship with Damascus.
The US Treasury Department announced the decision Monday after the required congressional review period concluded without objection. The move removes Syria from restrictions imposed under the Terrorism List Governments Sanctions Regulations.
Washington also revoked the designation of the Nusrah Front, formerly known as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization. The group was previously led by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa before he became head of the country following the fall of Bashar Assad’s government in December 2024.
The decision follows a broader policy shift by the administration of President Donald Trump toward Syria’s new authorities. Trump had announced in July that Washington intended to remove Syria from the terrorism list following his meeting with al-Sharaa during a NATO summit in Türkiye.
US officials said the delisting is intended to support Syria’s economic recovery and facilitate greater engagement with international markets. The designation had created substantial legal and financial obstacles for banks, companies and potential investors seeking to operate in the country.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the move as another step toward providing Syrians with an opportunity for economic development, while US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack called it a major milestone in Syria’s transition from international isolation toward broader partnership.
The removal comes as Syria attempts to rebuild after nearly 14 years of war and attract foreign capital for reconstruction. Syrian officials have sought to restore the country’s links with international financial institutions and encourage investment following the end of Assad’s rule.
The United States had already taken broader steps to ease sanctions on Syria in 2025. Monday’s action removes another significant legal obstacle to financial and commercial activity involving the country, although other US sanctions and restrictions remain in place.
Following Syria’s removal, Cuba, Iran and North Korea remain on the US State Sponsors of Terrorism list.
The decision represents one of Washington’s most consequential policy changes toward Syria in decades and could accelerate Damascus’ efforts to restore diplomatic and economic ties with the international community.
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