Demonstrators wave the Syrian flag in front of the Chancellery (background) before the meeting between the German Chancellor and Syrian President at the Chancellery in Berlin on March 30, 2026. (Photo by Tobias SCHWARZ / AFP via Getty Images)
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The Trump administration is taking steps to amend one of the longest-running U.S. foreign policy designations by removing Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list.
President Donald Trump formally notified Congress of his decision Wednesday, triggering a mandatory 45-day review period before the change can take effect.
What they’re saying:
The administration says the move reflects Syria’s political transition following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government and is intended to clear the way for reconstruction, foreign investment and expanded diplomatic ties.
State Sponsors of Terrorism
The backstory:
Syria was first designated a State Sponsor of Terrorism in 1979 for its support for militant organizations operating throughout the Middle East.
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If Congress does not block the move, Syria will join Iraq, Libya and Sudan, which have all recently been removed from the list over the past few years. The only nations remaining are Iran, North Korea and Cuba, who are all still labeled as State Sponsors of Terrorism, according to the State Department.
Big picture view:
Removal from the list clears the path for certain restrictions on U.S. foreign assistance, defense exports and some financial transactions to be lifted.
The other side:
Additional aspects of investments and economic recovery along with the reintegration of Syria into the global economy will also become available according to a Telegram post from Syria Central Bank Governor Safwat Raslan.
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