Damascus, August 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Syria has welcomed the United States’ decision to remove the country from its list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, describing the move as an important step towards ending decades of international isolation and supporting economic recovery.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry said the decision would open a “new chapter” in the country’s international relations and help create conditions for reconstruction, investment and greater stability and security.
The United States formally rescinded Syria’s designation on Monday after the completion of a mandatory 45-day congressional review period. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the decision followed steps taken by the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa to distance the country from international terrorism and strengthen counterterrorism efforts.
Syria had been on the US terrorism list since 1979. The designation imposed restrictions on US foreign assistance, defence exports and certain financial transactions, creating a significant barrier to international economic engagement.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the move would help attract additional investment and promote political and economic stability in Syria.
“Treasury is following through on President Trump’s promise to give the Syrian people a chance at greatness,” Bessent said.
US Special Presidential Envoy for Syria and Iraq Tom Barrack described the decision as a decisive step in Syria’s transition from isolation towards partnership. He said the designation had long separated Syrians from the investment, enterprise and opportunities needed to rebuild the country.
The US also revoked the designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, formerly known as the al-Nusrah Front, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organisation and removed it from the Treasury’s sanctions list.
Rubio said the actions recognised the Syrian government’s efforts and further commitments to distance itself from international terrorism.
The delisting is expected to ease a major obstacle to foreign investment and Syria’s reintegration into the global financial and economic system as Damascus seeks to rebuild after years of conflict.
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