The Trump administration on Monday formally removed Syria from its state sponsor of terrorism (SST) list, a major milestone for the government of President Ahmad al-Sharaa, easing sanctions and clearing the way for private investment and Syria’s return to the global economy.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said rescinding the SST designation, along with lifting the terrorist designation on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), removes the final major barriers to private-sector investment and supports Syria’s economic recovery and reintegration into the global economy. The World Bank has estimated Syria’s reconstruction costs at $216 billion.
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the move, echoing language it has used consistently as Washington has rolled back Syria sanctions since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Ankara has previously stated it welcomes the US administration’s strong resolve to normalize relations with the Syrian government and has pledged to continue contributing to Syria’s reconstruction through both public and private sectors, in cooperation with regional and international partners.
Turkey has positioned itself as Syria’s closest regional backer since al-Sharaa’s HTS-led government took power, given Ankara’s long-standing ties to the group and its interest in shaping post-Assad Syria — particularly regarding the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast, which Turkey views as linked to the PKK.
Syrian officials also welcomed Monday’s delisting. President al-Sharaa thanked Trump and “all the friendly and supportive nations that stood by us,” while Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani called it a “historic milestone” reflecting Syria’s commitment to international peace and security. Finance Minister Mohammed Barnieh described it as “a success for Syrian diplomacy.”
