US removes Syria from state sponsor of terrorism list
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The US Treasury announced on Monday that Syria has been removed from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list, revoking a designation in place since 1979. The Treasury also rescinded the terrorist designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group formerly led by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The move follows a July notification to Congress and is intended to foster investment and economic stability in Syria.
Key Facts
- The US Treasury announced the removal of Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list on Monday.
- The Treasury also revoked the designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization.
- Syria was first added to the list in 1979; Iran, Cuba, and North Korea remain on it.
- The US had notified Congress in July of its intention to delist Syria.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the action will help foster additional investment in Syria.
Delisting Announcement
The US Treasury announced on Monday that Syria has been removed from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list. The Treasury also revoked the designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization. The Office of Foreign Assets Control removed HTS from the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List. The US had notified Congress in July of its intention to delist Syria.
Economic and Political Impact
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the action will help foster additional investment in Syria to promote political and economic stability. The US lifted sanctions on Syria in June 2025 alongside the European Union. Syria's central bank governor Safwat Raslan called the move a historic step that restores the country to its natural place in the global economic system. Syrian Finance Minister Mohammed Barnieh described Washington's move as a major and historic success for Syrian diplomacy.
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US removes Syria from state sponsor of terrorism list
