US removes Syria from terror list after 47-year designation

The United States has initiated the formal process to delist Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism, ending a designation that had remained in place for nearly five decades. The Trump administration submitted the required 45-day advance notification to Congress, signalling a significant shift in bilateral relations between Washington and Damascus.

Counterterrorism commitments pave the way

According to an official statement, the decision reflects positive steps taken by Syria's new leadership under President Ahmed al-Shara, alongside formal assurances provided to US authorities. The move is expected to facilitate the removal of sanctions and support Syria's reconstruction efforts, marking a turning point for a nation long isolated by international restrictions.

Damascus hails historic breakthrough

Reacting to the development, Syrian Foreign Minister Esad Hasan Şeybani took to social media to express his government's gratitude. "In line with President Ahmed al-Shara's directives, we have closed a dark page in Syria's history," Şeybani wrote. "The state sponsor of terrorism classification imposed on Syria since 1979 due to the former regime's policies has been lifted."

The minister extended his appreciation to President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ambassador Tom Barrack, and all those who stood with Syria during this process.

A decades-old designation reversed

The US originally placed Syria on the terrorism blacklist in 1979, citing the Assad regime's alleged support for various militant groups. The classification had subjected Damascus to severe economic sanctions and international restrictions, compounding the hardships of Syria's prolonged civil conflict.

The delisting process, now subject to congressional review, represents one of the most consequential diplomatic developments since the change in Syrian leadership. Neighbouring Türkiye, which has maintained close engagement with Syria's new administration, has welcomed steps toward Syria's reintegration into the international community.

As the 45-day notification period proceeds, both Washington and Damascus will continue consultations to address remaining concerns, with observers noting that full normalisation remains contingent on sustained progress in counterterrorism cooperation and political stability.