U.S. Rescinds Syria's Terrorism Sponsor Designation

WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the formal rescission of Syria’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST) on August 24, 2026. This action followed the conclusion of a mandatory 45-day Congressional notification period. Rubio also delisted Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).

Rubio stated that these actions acknowledge steps taken by the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa. He indicated these steps involved distancing Syria from acts of international terrorism. He cited the Government of Syria formally joining the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS in November, along with conducting operations against terror networks associated with ISIS, al-Qa’ida, Hizballah, and Iran-aligned groups.

The Secretary of State said the rescission of Syria’s SST designation and HTS’s SDGT designation removes what he described as final major barriers for private sector investment in Syria. Officials anticipate these changes will support Syria's economic recovery and its reintegration into the global economy.

Rubio referenced previous actions taken by the Trump Administration. He highlighted the June 2025 Executive Order, titled 'Providing for the Revocation of Syria Sanctions,' which he said accelerated sanctions relief for Syria. This order terminated the Syria Sanctions Program and the national emergency regarding Syria. It also directed reviews on various Syria-related sanctions and terrorist designations.

For additional information on U.S. sanctions and export control relief for Syria, a Tri-Seal Advisory is available, published by the U.S. Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and State.