politics
Trump Says He Will Remove Syria From U.S. State Sponsors of Terrorism List
President Trump told reporters he will remove Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list after meeting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The move follows a June 2025 executive order and a 45-day congressional notification period.
Jul 8, 1:52 PM·1m read8 sources
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President Trump said Wednesday he will remove Syria from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism after meeting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on the sidelines of a summit in Turkey. The announcement came during a joint appearance in Ankara. Trump told reporters the decision would allow Syria to rebuild without previous restrictions.
Designation Syria was first placed on the list in 1979.
The designation has blocked most U.S. trade, investment, and financial transactions with the country. Officials said the move follows an executive order issued in June 2025 that directed a review of the designation. The review examined counterterrorism steps taken by the Syrian government and assurances provided by al-Sharaa.
President Trump notified Congress on July 8, 2026, of the intent to rescind the designation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered the formal notice that day. The notification began a 45-day pre-notification period required before the change can take effect.
Congress repealed the Caesar Act sanctions on Syria in 2025. Energy companies including Chevron and ConocoPhillips have already entered agreements with Syria's state-owned oil company. Nokia received a U.S. license in June 2026 to sell $30,000 of telecom equipment to Syria's parliament after the sale had been delayed by the designation.
