RismadarVoice Reporters, August 25, 2026
The United States has formally removed Syria from its list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, following the completion of the mandatory 45-day congressional notification period.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision on Monday, describing it as another significant step by President Donald Trump to create a path for Syria, under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, toward economic recovery and greater international engagement.
Washington also announced the removal of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from its designation as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organisation.
The US said the decisions followed developments in Syria and its cooperation in efforts against extremist groups.
According to Rubio, Washington particularly welcomed Syria’s decision to join the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and its operations aimed at disrupting the activities of ISIS, al-Qaeda, Hezbollah and Iran-aligned groups.
The removal of Syria from the terrorism sponsor list could have significant implications for the country’s international relations, economic activity and efforts to attract foreign investment.
It also represents a major shift in Washington’s policy toward Damascus after years of sanctions and diplomatic isolation.
The move comes under President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration as Syria seeks to rebuild after more than a decade of devastating conflict.
