Trump announces plan to remove Syria from US terrorism sponsor list

Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced at the NATO summit in Brussels that he intends to remove the Syrian Arab Republic from the U.S. State Sponsor of Terrorism list. The designation, which has been in place since 1979, limits U.S. financial aid, freezes assets, and imposes sanctions on the Syrian government. Trump said the decision would be taken once the U.S. government formally withdraws Syria from the list, citing a shift in the country’s political landscape and a desire to encourage a broader regional reconciliation.

The announcement comes amid a broader debate in Washington about the efficacy of the state‑sponsor designation and its impact on U.S. foreign policy. Critics argue that the label has not deterred terrorism and that it hampers diplomatic engagement, while supporters maintain it serves as a deterrent against state‑backed extremist groups. Trump’s statement also follows recent U.S. policy shifts that have reduced direct military support to Syrian opposition groups and increased diplomatic outreach to the Assad regime.

If the removal is enacted, it would be the first time Syria has been delisted since the designation was established, potentially opening the door for increased humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement. The move is expected to prompt a review by the U.S. State Department and Congress, which would need to approve the change before it becomes official.