The United States has removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, ending a designation that had remained in place since 1979 and potentially opening a new chapter in the country’s economic and diplomatic relations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the decision reflects what Washington considers positive steps by Syria’s new government to distance itself from international terrorism. The move is expected to remove a major obstacle to private investment and help Syria reconnect with the global economy.
The decision follows a dramatic political transformation in Syria. In late 2024, an offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) toppled longtime President Bashar al-Assad, with Ahmed al-Sharaa subsequently becoming the country’s transitional leader.
Washington has increasingly engaged with Sharaa despite his past links to militant groups. HTS, formerly associated with al-Qaeda, has also had its US terrorist designation removed.
Economic opening
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the latest action could encourage investment and support Syria’s political and economic stability. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani described the decision as a historic development and said Damascus would work to overcome the effects of years of international isolation.
The US move also signals Washington’s effort to increase its influence in Syria, where Russia and China have maintained interests.
However, major challenges remain, including security concerns, political uncertainty and tensions involving neighbouring Israel and Turkey.
With Syria removed, only Cuba, North Korea and Iran remain on the US list of state sponsors of terrorism.
