Published：Jul 8, 14:35Last updated：Jul 9, 15:44

US to Remove Syria from Terrorism Sanctions List

Jul. 8, 2026 14:35

President Trump reiterated plans to remove Syria from the terrorism sanctions list. The decision was discussed during a meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The talks occurred on the sidelines of the NATO summit.

Summarized

9News

6Media

Jul. 9, 2026 07:04

On July 9, 2026, the U.S. announced plans to delist Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism after a 45-day notice period. The move follows a meeting between U.S. and Syrian officials and signals potential economic engagement.

Jul. 9, 2026 15:44

US President Donald Trump initiated the process to remove Syria from the list of state sponsors of terrorism after 47 years during a bilateral meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara in Ankara, Turkey. The decision was notified to Congress, and if no objections arise within the 45-day review period, Syria will be delisted, leaving only North Korea, Iran, and Cuba. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that this move offers Syria a chance for national reconstruction and benefits the Middle East and the world.

President Donald Trump announced the United States' decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism during a meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, marking a significant shift in US-Syria relations after nearly five decades. The decision, which requires a 45-day notice period, aims to support Syria's reconstruction efforts and foster regional stabilityBloomberg+2.

🕊️ Diplomatic Shift

The move to delist Syria represents a major policy change, signaling potential economic engagement and improved diplomatic relations. President Trump praised Ahmed al-Sharaa's leadership since 2024, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding Syria. The decision was formally notified to Congress, initiating a review periodFrance 24+2.

🌍 Regional Implications

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted that the decision offers Syria an opportunity for national reconstruction and benefits the broader Middle East. The move has sparked debate over its implications for regional stability, with some viewing it as a step toward peace and others expressing concerns about its potential consequencesChosun Ilbo+1.

📅 Next Steps

The delisting process involves a 45-day review period, during which Congress can raise objections. If no objections are made, Syria will be removed from the list, leaving only North Korea, Iran, and Cuba as state sponsors of terrorism. This decision marks the first time Syria has been considered for removal since 1979CCTV+1.

AnkaraMarco RubioNATO summitDonald TrumpAhmed al-Sharaa