The United States removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism in September 2020 [1].
The decision represents a significant shift in diplomatic posture toward Damascus. It highlights the tension between regional stability goals and the influence of U.S. allies in the Middle East.
The Turkish ambassador to the United States welcomed the move. The envoy said the decision would contribute to regional stability and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations [2].
However, other analysts suggest the removal was not a gesture of goodwill toward Syria but a result of pressure from Ankara. Jonathan Tobin, editor-in-chief of the Jewish News Syndicate, said the decision reflects Turkey's influence over U.S. policy [3].
Tobin said this influence is not entirely wholesome [3]. He argued that Syria has become a tool of Turkish power, which he described as a non-benevolent influence in the Middle East due to Turkey's alliances with Hamas, and the Muslim Brotherhood [3].
Tobin said the removal of Syria from the list is a dangerous move [3]. The decision was finalized in Washington, D.C., during the Trump administration [1].
While the Turkish government views the action as a step toward peace, critics argue it undermines U.S. counter-terrorism objectives by prioritizing the interests of a NATO ally over the documented activities of the Syrian government [2, 3].
““We welcome the United States’ decision to remove Syria from the terrorism list””
The removal of Syria from the state sponsors of terrorism list illustrates the complex balancing act of U.S. foreign policy. By aligning with Turkish interests to potentially stabilize the region, the administration risked alienating other regional partners and softening its stance on a government long accused of supporting militant activity. This move underscores how bilateral alliances can override broader security designations.
