The U.S. State Department removed Syria from the list of state sponsors of terrorism on Aug. 24, 2026 [1].
This policy shift marks a significant pivot in Middle East diplomacy, aiming to improve relations with Damascus and provide broader sanctions relief for the Syrian people.
The removal ends a designation that had lasted for 47 years [6]. In addition to the national designation, the U.S. formally delisted the extremist group Hay’at Tahrir al‑Sham (HTS) [2].
Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa released a video message from Damascus following the announcement. He said Syria is "shaking off a dark burden" and moving toward development [3].
Reports on the specific administration and officials responsible for the move vary. Some sources attribute the decision to the Biden administration, while others cite the Trump administration [1, 4]. Similarly, reports differ on whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio or Secretary of State Antony Blinken formally rescinded the designation [2, 5].
The U.S. government said the move is intended to facilitate a warming relationship between Washington and Damascus [4]. By removing these labels, the U.S. opens the door for increased diplomatic engagement, and a potential restructuring of economic sanctions that have hampered the Syrian economy for decades.
Officials in Washington said the delisting is a step toward stabilizing the region. The move comes as the U.S. seeks to balance its strategic interests in the Levant while encouraging the Syrian government to adhere to international norms.
“Syria is "shaking off a dark burden" and moving toward development.”
The removal of Syria from the state sponsors of terrorism list is a prerequisite for significant economic normalization. While the delisting of HTS suggests a pragmatic approach to the current power structure in Syria, the move will likely face scrutiny from allies and domestic critics who argue that sanctions should remain until specific human rights or security benchmarks are met.
