US removes Syria from list of state sponsors of terrorism

August 25, 2026

The United States has removed Syria from its state sponsors of terrorism list after 47 years, eliminating significant obstacles to international investment and Syria's reintegration into the global economy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio justified the decision by citing the Syrian government's efforts to separate itself from international terrorism under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who previously led an al-Qaeda affiliate group. The Trump administration has actively engaged with al-Sharaa's transitional government, which came to power after overthrowing Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, despite concerns about Syria's security situation and lack of representative governance.

Who is affected

Syria and its population
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and his transitional administration
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist group formerly designated as a terrorist organization
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani
Private sector investors interested in Syria
Neighboring countries Israel and Turkey
Russia and China (competing for influence in Syria)
Cuba, North Korea, and Iran (remaining countries on the list)

What action is being taken

The US is removing Syria from its state sponsors of terrorism list
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is implementing the designation removal that was initially flagged in July
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is working to foster additional investment in Syria

Why it matters

This decision represents a major shift in US foreign policy that could reshape Syria's economic future and geopolitical alignment. By lifting financial sanctions and restrictions that had been in place since 1979, the US is opening Syria to international investment and trade opportunities, potentially bringing stability to a country that has experienced years of civil war. The move also reflects strategic competition, as the US seeks to prevent Syria from falling under Russian or Chinese influence. However, significant risks remain given Syria's fragile security situation, absence of representative government, and its position amid regional tensions between Israel and Turkey.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC