The beginning of a wonderful friendship? US removes Syria from list of state sponsors of terrorism

The United States has officially removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, a step that removes a significant barrier to investment in the country. The decision, which took effect after a congressional review period, represents another step in deepening relations with the new Syrian government led by Ahmed al-Shara.

The United States removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism on Monday, August 24, 2026, thereby removing a significant obstacle to investment in the country. The decision, published on the US Treasury Department's website, took effect after a 45-day congressional review period that began when President Trump formally notified Congress on July 8 of his intention to revoke the designation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement that "these steps were taken in recognition of the positive actions and additional commitments by the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Shara to completely disengage from international terrorist acts." Syria had been on the list since 1979, when Washington accused the government of former President Hafez al-Assad of supporting "militant groups." The designation remained throughout the rule of his son, Bashar al-Assad, who was ousted by rebels led by current President Ahmed al-Shara in December 2024. The designation carried restrictions on US foreign aid, security exports, and financial transactions, and was a significant deterrent for banks and investors. Now Cuba, Iran, and North Korea are the only three countries designated by Washington as state sponsors of terrorism. Rubio wrote in a post on X that the step "opens new potential for Syria's economic renewal and progress."