Syria ‘shakes off’ past with removal from US ‘terror’ list, says al-Sharaa | Syria’s War News
U.S. Removes Syria from Terrorism List, Offering Major Sanctions Relief
Washington, D.C. — Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa praised the United States’ decision to remove Syria from the “state sponsors of terrorism” list, a significant step toward alleviating sanctions and fostering post-war reconstruction efforts.
In a speech delivered following the announcement, al-Sharaa described the development as a means for Syria to “shake off a dark stain” and move toward rebuilding and development.
The U.S. decision, announced on Monday, rescinded a designation that had been in place since 1979, when Syria, under then-leader Hafez al-Assad, was accused of supporting Palestinian militant groups and various armed factions in neighboring Lebanon. This change in status marks a notable shift in U.S.-Syria relations, especially after the 2024 ouster of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad.
“I extend my gratitude to the President of the United States and to all the friendly nations that supported us,” al-Sharaa said.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the removal of sanctions is aimed at encouraging investment in Syria, which he believes will foster both political and economic stability. However, the Treasury Department emphasized that this change does not alter its commitment to counter global terrorism or hold accountable those involved in destabilizing activities in Syria.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the removal of restrictions offers “a path to prosperity” for Syria, eliminating significant barriers to private sector investment and promoting the country’s economic recovery and reintegration into the global economy. The World Bank has estimated the cost of post-war reconstruction in Syria to exceed $216 billion.
The U.S. move has garnered support from several countries. Turkey, a prominent ally of Syria’s new authorities, stated that this decision would enhance Syria’s engagement with the international community and contribute to establishing lasting security and stability. Ankara called on the global community to unite in efforts to foster a prosperous Syria.
Qatar and Jordan also welcomed the development, with Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noting that the action aligns with political settlements that respect the aspirations of the Syrian people. Jordan’s Foreign Ministry hailed the decision as “an important step” toward supporting Syria’s recovery and development.
Saudi Arabia expressed its hopes for Syria’s continued security and prosperity, while Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reiterated Ukraine’s support for Syria’s new government and its recovery efforts.
In a sign of Syria’s increasing international reintegration, the country has also expanded its diplomatic outreach by launching an English-language social media account for its foreign media department. Additionally, Syrian Airlines announced plans to begin regular flights from Damascus to Copenhagen and Vienna on September 21, as part of efforts to strengthen its international connectivity.
Omar al-Hosary, head of Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, stated that the new routes represent ongoing efforts to expand the national airline’s international network and enhance air links between Syria and Europe.
