Damascus, 8 July (SANA) The Syrian Arab Republic welcomes the announcement by the United States of America, following today’s discussions between His Excellency President Ahmad al-Sharaa of the Syrian Arab Republic and His Excellency President Donald Trump of the United States of America, of the initiation of the process of rescinding Syria’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, a designation it has held since 1979, as well as President Trump’s notification to Congress of his intention to take this step.
Together, these developments mark a significant step forward in Syrian–American relations, founded on dialogue, mutual respect, and shared interests.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates affirms that the removal of this designation, alongside the lifting of sanctions, will support economic recovery, create the conditions necessary for reconstruction efforts, and promote trade and investment, in a manner that serves the interests of the Syrian people and contributes to regional security and stability.
The Syrian Arab Republic looks forward to continuing constructive engagement with the United States of America in a manner that strengthens bilateral relations and advances peace, development, and prosperity.
Earlier today, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio formally notified Congress of President Trump’s intent to rescind the designation, which will be effective after a 45-day congressional review period, Rubio said in a statement.
“This is yet another historic step by President Trump to give the Syrian people a chance at greatness,” Rubio said. “Lifting sanctions on Syria will unlock international trade and investment, give Syria a chance to rebuild, and open up a new chapter for the Syrian people”.
Washington designated Syria as a State Sponsor of Terrorism in 1979 under the policies of the ousted Assad regime. In November 2025, President al-Sharaa made the first-ever visit by a Syrian president to the White House, and the US Congress approved the repeal of sanctions under the Caesar Act in December 2025. Syria subsequently joined the US-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS as its 90th member.
Trump’s announcement represents another step in the normalization of US-Syria relations following the fall of the deposed regime in December 2024. In May 2025, Trump announced he would lift sanctions on Syria to create a new relationship between the two countries.
Kh.A / H.H
