US Removes Syria from Terrorism Sponsors List: 'Washing Away a Stain'
Theo Al Jazeera
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa welcomed the US removal of Syria from the state sponsors of terrorism list, calling it a step to 'wash away a dark stain.' The move eases sanctions and supports reconstruction, with global reactions ranging from praise to cautious support.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa praised the US decision to remove the country from the list of “state sponsors of terrorism,” a significant easing of sanctions aimed at supporting post-war reconstruction.
Speaking on September 15, al-Sharaa emphasized: “Today, Syria washes away a dark stain and closes a painful chapter of the past to step onto the path of development, reconstruction, and rebuilding the nation.” He also expressed “deep gratitude to US President Donald Trump and all friendly, supportive nations that stood by our side.”
The Washington decision on September 15 lifted a designation that had lasted for decades and carried severe economic restrictions, marking another step in strengthening ties between the two countries after rebel forces toppled Bashar al-Assad’s government in 2024.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement that the move “will help promote additional investment in Syria, supporting political and economic stability.” However, the US Treasury stressed that lifting the restrictions “does not alter the Department’s stance in fighting global terrorism and its commitment to holding bad actors in Syria accountable.”
The US had placed Syria on the list of “state sponsors of terrorism” in 1979, under the late President Hafez al-Assad, Bashar al-Assad’s father, on allegations that the country backed Palestinian armed groups and other militant movements in neighboring Lebanon.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the move gives Syria a “path to prosperity,” while “removing the last major barriers to private-sector investment in Syria, promoting economic recovery, and reintegration into the global economy.” The World Bank estimates that Syria’s reconstruction will cost more than $216 billion.
Many countries welcomed the US decision. Turkey, a supporter of the new Syrian government, said the step would “create momentum for Syria’s efforts to strengthen ties with the international community and establish long-term security and stability for the country.” Qatar, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia also welcomed the move, emphasizing that it supports stabilization and reconstruction efforts in Syria. Ukraine also expressed support for the new Syrian government.
In another sign of Syria’s growing international reintegration, Damascus on September 15 also launched an English-language social media account for its foreign media department to expand diplomatic outreach. Syrian Airlines will launch regular direct flights from Damascus to Copenhagen (Denmark) and Vienna (Austria) starting September 21, according to the head of the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority, reflecting efforts to expand international routes and increase air connectivity with Europe.
