President Donald Trump said he expects to remove Syria from the U.S. State Department’s State Sponsors of Terrorism list [1].
This potential policy shift marks a significant departure in diplomatic relations between the two nations. If implemented, the move could pave the way for sanctions relief, and facilitate the reconstruction of Syrian infrastructure after years of conflict.
The announcement followed a bilateral meeting between Trump and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa during the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey [1, 2]. Trump said the decision was linked to Syria’s ongoing political transition and broader regional security discussions held during the summit.
"I think we will remove Syria from the list," Trump said [1].
During the meeting, Trump praised the Syrian leader's efforts in managing the country's current trajectory. "You have done a great job, President al-Sharaa," Trump said [2].
President al-Sharaa responded by emphasizing the impact of the diplomatic gesture on his nation's future. "This historic decision will help rebuild our country," al-Sharaa said [2].
The meeting took place on July 8, 2026 [1, 2]. The discussions focused on how the removal of the terrorism designation could stabilize the region, and allow for more direct economic engagement. The U.S. government has historically used the State Sponsors of Terrorism list to restrict trade and financial transactions with designated countries.
Trump said the transition of the Syrian government played a key role in his assessment of the situation [1]. The move would likely require coordination with the State Department to finalize the legal and administrative requirements for delisting a nation.
“"I think we will remove Syria from the list."”
The removal of Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list would represent a fundamental pivot in U.S. foreign policy toward Damascus. By signaling this shift, the U.S. is prioritizing regional stability and the legitimacy of the current Syrian political transition over previous punitive diplomatic strategies. This move likely serves as a catalyst for future sanctions relief and encourages international investment in Syrian reconstruction.
