03 / 10
US ends Syria's 47-year terrorism sponsor designation
Washington's decision removes a long-standing US sanctions barrier as Syria's transitional government seeks investment and international economic ties.
What happened
The United States removed Syria from its state-sponsor-of-terrorism list, ending a designation in place for decades. It also removed Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham from US terrorist sanctions lists after congressional review. Washington presented the move as recognition of the Syrian government's commitments against international terrorism and as opening investment and economic reintegration.
Numbers
- 47 yearsSyria's time on the list — Designation began in 1979
- 45 daysCongressional review before removal — Triggered by presidential notification
- Three countriesStill designated by Washington — Cuba, Iran and North Korea
Questions
- Why was Syria listed originally?
- Washington first placed Syria on the list under Hafez al-Assad, accusing his government of supporting militant groups at that time.
- Why did Washington act now?
- Rubio cited the government's actions and commitments against international terrorism, including steps against ISIS, al-Qaeda, Hezbollah and Iran-aligned groups.
- What changes for HTS now?
- Washington also removed HTS from separate terrorist sanctions lists and revoked a prior licence permitting transactions involving the government.
- Which countries remain on Washington's list?
- Cuba, Iran and North Korea are now the only countries Washington designates as state sponsors of terrorism under its law.
- What could limit Syria's recovery?
- The BBC noted Syria remains insecure, lacks representative government and faces growing tensions involving its neighbours Israel and Turkey.
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The catch
The decision does not by itself resolve Syria's security, representation or regional tensions.
Investment effects remain to be seen.