U.S. removes Syria from state sponsor of terrorism list
The United States has officially removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism and revoked the terrorist designation of the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group. This decision, supported by the Trump administration, aims to facilitate economic recovery and private sector investment in Syria following the 2024 overthrow of the Assad regime.
Why it matters
This policy shift marks a significant geopolitical realignment in the Middle East, potentially ending decades of economic isolation for Syria and signaling a new diplomatic relationship between Washington and the post-Assad government.
The United States on Monday (August 24, 2026) removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism , rescinding a decades-old designation that came with severe economic restrictions and marking another step in warming ties between the countries.
The U.S. Department of State also revoked its designation of al-Nusra Front — latterly known as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) — as a global terrorist organisation. The Treasury Department announced corresponding sanctions relief.
Rebels led by HTS overthrew long-time Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, with the group's leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, taking over as president as the country rebuilds after more than 13 years of civil war.
"Today's action will help foster additional investment in Syria to promote political and economic stability," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement.
Treasury said the moves were "in line with President [Donald] Trump's promise to deliver sanctions relief to Syria."
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