ANKARA: US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that his administration will remove Syria from the United States’ list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, marking a significant shift in Washington’s policy toward Damascus.
Trump made the announcement after meeting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Türkiye.
When Will the Decision Take Effect?
According to Trump, the decision will become official in 45 days, unless it is blocked by the US Congress.
The move begins the formal process of removing Syria from the terrorism designation, which carries broad economic and diplomatic sanctions.
Why Is the Decision Significant?
Removing Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list would represent a major change in US-Syria relations after years of diplomatic isolation and sanctions.
The designation has imposed restrictions on foreign assistance, defence exports, financial transactions and other forms of engagement with Damascus.
What Could Happen Next?
If Congress does not block the decision within the review period, Syria will officially be removed from the US terrorism list, potentially paving the way for expanded diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation between Washington and Damascus.
The announcement comes amid broader regional efforts to reshape diplomatic relations in the Middle East following months of heightened conflict.