The United States has removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, ending a decades-old designation that had imposed severe economic restrictions on the country.
The US Department of State also revoked the designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly known as the al-Nusra Front, as a global terrorist organisation. The Treasury Department has also announced sanctions relief for Syria.
The decision comes as Syria continues efforts to rebuild following more than 13 years of civil war. Rebels led by HTS overthrew longtime President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, with Ahmed al-Sharaa later becoming president. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the decision would help encourage investment in Syria and promote political and economic stability.
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, said the move would give Syrians a path toward economic recovery by removing major barriers to private-sector investment and helping the country reintegrate into the global economy. Syrian officials welcomed the announcement. Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani described it as a “historic milestone,” while Finance Minister Mohammed Barnieh said it could help the country attract foreign investment, modern technology and new development opportunities.
Syria has suffered severe economic damage following years of war, with rights groups estimating that more than 500,000 people were killed during the conflict. The US government, however, stressed that removing Syria from the terrorism list does not end its efforts to combat terrorism or hold individuals and organisations considered dangerous accountable.
The decision marks a significant shift in relations between Washington and Damascus and could provide Syria with greater opportunities to reconnect with the international financial system.
