US Delists Syria as State Sponsor of Terrorism After 47 Years

The United States has officially taken Syria off its list of state sponsors of terrorism after 47 years, a move aimed at opening the door for private sector investment and reintegrating Syria into the global economy.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted that the decision reflects Syria's efforts to distance itself from international terrorism. This development follows the US government's recognition of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former militant leader who once had a bounty on his head and whose group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), was also removed from the US terrorism list.

HTS, previously known as al-Nusra Front and formerly al-Qaeda's Syrian affiliate, severed ties with al-Qaeda in 2016. In late 2024, HTS led a rebel offensive that ousted former President Bashar al-Assad, and it now holds significant influence in Sharaa's transitional administration.

Strategic Implications

• The US aims to draw Syria closer to its sphere of influence, countering Russian and Chinese presence.
• Despite the delisting, Syria remains unstable and lacks a representative government.
• Regional tensions persist, particularly involving Israel and Turkey.

Rubio described the delisting as providing Syria with "a path to prosperity," while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the potential for increased investment to support political and economic stability.

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani welcomed the announcement as a "historic step," committing to efforts that would reduce isolation and foster transparency and mutual respect.

With Syria's removal, only Cuba, North Korea, and Iran remain on the US list of state sponsors of terrorism. The designation had subjected Syria to financial sanctions, restrictions on US aid, defense exports, and penalties on entities trading with the country.