Syrian Government Thanks Trump for Removal from Terrorism List
On Wednesday, the Syrian government expressed its appreciation to President Donald Trump and his administration following the announcement that Syria would be taken off the State Department’s list of state sponsors of terrorism, a designation it has held since 1979.
During a meeting at the NATO summit in Turkey, President Trump met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Trump has praised Sharaa, who had previously been sought by Al Qaeda, ever since he took over from former Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, known for his ties to both Iran and Russia. Sharaa’s government has also aligned with the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State and is looking to enhance cooperation with the U.S.
In light of this decision, Syria’s Foreign Minister, Assad Hassan al-Shaibani, remarked that they have “closed a dark chapter” in the nation’s history. He shared his gratitude for the U.S. support, mentioning key figures like Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Ambassador Tom Barrack in a social media post, which included a letter from Trump confirming the decision.
Syria’s state media referred to the removal from the list as “historic” and highlighted the potential for increased international investment in the country.
The State Sponsor of Terrorism List is a serious designation that carries significant sanctions. Currently, the list includes only Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and Syria, all closely associated during the Assad regime. Being on this list restricts U.S. foreign assistance, defense exports, and imposes various financial barriers.
In discussions with Sharaa at the summit, Trump expressed his belief that removing Syria from the list was appropriate. He acknowledged that Syria had remained on the list for decades due to the Assad regime’s connections with various terrorist organizations, including Iranian-backed groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
When asked about the removal, Trump hinted, “He would. Why not? He’s done a great job.” Trump suggested Sharaa might “support Hezbollah,” a notion firmly rejected by Damascus.
Trump also highlighted Syria’s rich cultural heritage, mentioning its respected professionals. “One of the great cultures of any country, not just the Middle East,” he noted. He then remarked on the hardships Syria has faced, emphasizing the pride in Sharaa’s leadership.
Following Trump’s commentary, the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency reported that he sent a formal letter to Sharaa outlining the intention to remove Syria from the terrorism list.
The letter stated that Congress had been notified of the decision, which would go through a 45-day review period. It mentioned that American companies were ready to invest in Syria to enhance its prosperity.
The State Department officially confirmed the intention to remove Syria from the list. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized this move as a “historic step” that would provide the Syrian people with considerable opportunities. He remarked that lifting sanctions would foster international trade and investment, paving the way for Syria’s rebuilding.
Rubio highlighted positive changes and counterterrorism measures taken by Sharaa’s government, along with assurances that Syria would not engage in international terrorism going forward.
This decision is particularly significant considering Sharaa’s controversial past. Before assuming power in December 2024, he was known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the leader of a militia affiliated with Al-Qaeda. The U.S. even had a $10 million reward for information leading to his capture. The Al-Tahrir al-Sham group’s focus on overthrowing the Assad regime puts it in direct opposition to Hezbollah and other Iranian allies, driving Sharaa to seek improved relations with Western nations.
