The United States has begun the process of removing Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism [1].
This decision marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Damascus. By ending the designation, the U.S. government aims to facilitate new economic ties and diplomatic engagement with the Syrian government.
President Donald Trump (R-FL) announced his intention to remove the country from the list on Monday, July 8, 2026 [2]. While some reports indicate the process has officially started [1], other sources note that the president has informed Congress of the intention to proceed [3].
Syria had been on the U.S. state-sponsor-of-terrorism list for 47 years [1]. The long-standing designation had imposed strict sanctions and limited the ability of the Syrian government to engage in international trade and finance.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the step opens the door to trade and investment with Syria [1]. This shift suggests a move away from the isolationist policies that characterized previous decades of U.S.-Syrian relations.
In Damascus, the Syrian government welcomed the move. A spokesperson for the Syrian Foreign Ministry said the decision is a great and historic success for their diplomacy [1].
President Trump previously expressed his position on the matter. "I am inclined to remove Syria from the list," Trump said [3].
“"This step opens the door to trade and investment with Syria."”
The removal of Syria from the state sponsors of terrorism list is a pivotal diplomatic pivot that reduces legal barriers to bilateral commerce. While the political relationship remains complex, the move signals that the U.S. is prioritizing economic integration and strategic pragmatism over the previous policy of total diplomatic and financial isolation.
