US Removes Syria from 'State Sponsor of Terrorism' List in 'Historic' Step

THE NEW ARAB: After almost fifty years, Syria was taken off the United States' list of countries that sponsor terrorism in a move hailed as opening a new chapter.

Screenshot from this TNA article. | The United States initially announced in July its intention to delist Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism, a move seen as a vote of confidence in Sharaa [GETTY]
The United States on Monday removed Syria from its blacklist of "State Sponsors of Terrorism" after over 40 years, in a move described as a "historic step" for the country.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement that the removal "will help foster additional investment in Syria to promote political and economic stability".

Bessent added the moves were "in line with President (Donald) Trump's promise to deliver sanctions relief to Syria".

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa welcomed the move, saying: "Today, Syria shakes off a dark stain and tears away a painful chapter of its past to embark on a path of development, reconstruction and rebuilding".

Al-Sharaa thanked US President Donald Trump, as well as countries that have supported Syria. » | Anam Alam | Tuesday, August 25, 2026

US-Syria Realigned | This Is America

August 19, 2026 | Syria is still on the US list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, but President Donald Trump has notified Congress to remove it.

However, Trump wants much more in return. He’s even floated Syria taking on Hezbollah directly.

Al Sharaa's not going for it. He's playing it safer, sticking to intercepting weapons at the border and betting that's enough to keep Washington off his back, without pulling Syria into the war in Lebanon. P

RESENTER: Alex Marquardt
GUESTS:
William Roebuck: Former US Deputy Special Envoy for the Global Coalition Against ISIS
Wa'el Alzayat: Former Senior Midde East Adviser to US Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power