The United States has formally removed Syria from its list of ‘State Sponsors of Terrorism,’ a decision announced by the Treasury Department on Monday following a decade-long designation placed on the country during the rule of ousted President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This action, a pivotal moment in US foreign policy, represents a significant reversal of decades-long practice and a reassessment of the country’s relationship with the United States.
The Treasury Department’s statement confirmed the revocation of a designation initially revealed last month, marking a crucial step in the process of re-establishing Syria’s relationship with the international community. This action directly follows a review conducted by Congress, which had initially sought to address concerns about Syria’s alleged support for terrorism.
The removal of al-Nusrah Front, formerly led by the now-President Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), as a global ‘terrorist’ organisation represents a considerable shift. The designation, which had significant implications for investment, sanctions, and financial transactions, was intended to impede the country’s ability to re-establish itself in the global economy. The US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, lauded the action as “in line with President Trump’s promise to deliver sanctions relief to Syria,” highlighting the broader strategic goal of supporting Syria’s economic recovery.
Prior to this removal, HTS was once al-Qaeda’s official branch in Syria, and under al-Sharaa’s leadership, the group removed former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 following a lightning offensive. The designation of the state carried restrictions on US foreign assistance, defence exports, and financial transactions, making Syria’s removal from the list a particularly significant development within the country.
Syrian Finance Minister Safwat Raslan stated on X that this action ‘is a historic step that restores the country to its natural place in the global economic system,’ emphasizing the potential for this to attract investment and foster modernization. The central bank, the Governor of Syria’s central bank, stated that the bank is ‘working to build a modern and reliable financial system’ and that this action represents a ‘decisive step in Syria’s remarkable journey from isolation to partnership, and from a source of terrorism to a committed partner in the global fight against it.’
The move is being interpreted as a significant step towards Syria’s integration into the global economy, with potential benefits including attracting investment, modern technologies, and development opportunities. The US envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, described the end of the designation as a ‘decisive step in Syria’s remarkable journey from isolation to partnership, and from a source of terrorism to a committed partner in the global fight against it,’ reflecting the government’s desire for a new chapter in its relationship with the United States.
The action is expected to have a significant impact on Syria’s financial landscape and its role within the international community, representing a pivotal moment in the nation’s trajectory.
Source: Al Jazeera
