Syria Turns the Page as US Removes Nation from State Sponsors of Terrorism List

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has praised the United States for removing his country from the "state sponsors of terrorism" list, marking a crucial move toward sanctions relief and post-war reconstruction.

"Today, Syria shakes off a dark stain and tears away a painful chapter of its past to embark on a path of development, reconstruction and rebuilding," al-Sharaa declared in a speech.

The US decision, announced on Monday by Washington, rescinded a decades-old designation tied to severe economic restrictions. This step highlights warming relations between the two nations following the 2024 ouster of longtime Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad.

Al-Sharaa expressed gratitude to the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, along with friendly nations supporting Syria.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the action will encourage investment and foster political and economic stability in Syria. However, the Treasury emphasized that lifting these restrictions does not alter its commitment to countering global terrorism and holding accountable bad actors within Syria.

Originally placed on the list in 1979 under Hafez al-Assad—father of Bashar al-Assad—Syria was accused of backing Palestinian fighter groups and armed movements in neighboring Lebanon.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the decision provides Syria with a "path to prosperity," eliminating barriers for private sector investment and aiding global reintegration. According to World Bank estimates, post-war reconstruction in Syria will exceed $216 billion.

International reactions were largely positive. Turkiye called the move a catalyst for strengthening international ties and lasting security. Qatar, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Ukraine also voiced support for Syria's recovery, political settlement, and reconstruction efforts.

In further steps toward international reintegration, Damascus launched an English-language social media account for its foreign media department. Additionally, Syria's civil aviation authority announced that Syrian Airlines will start operating direct flights from Damascus to Copenhagen and Vienna on September 21, expanding the national carrier's European network, as confirmed by Omar al-Hosary, head of Syria's General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport.