Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa praised U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to remove Syria from the state sponsors of terrorism list, calling it a critical step for the country’s recovery. Trump announced the move during a meeting in Ankara, with Congress set to review the change over 45 days.
In a statement to Al Jazeera, al-Sharaa emphasized that lifting economic sanctions alone would have limited impact without the terrorism designation being rescinded. The move, announced by Trump during a meeting in Ankara, marks a significant shift in U.S.-Syria relations, though it remains subject to a 45-day congressional review.
Trump’s Announcement and Congressional Process
Trump formally notified Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa of his decision to remove Syria from the terrorism list during their meeting at the NATO Summit in Ankara, according to SANA. The U.S. president stated that the move aims to remove obstacles to Syria’s reconstruction and enable American companies to invest in the country. Under U.S. law, Congress must now conduct a 45-day review before the designation can be finalized. This process, outlined in a letter Trump sent to al-Sharaa and seen by Reuters, underscores the procedural hurdles despite the executive’s authority.
The 45-day review period, a standard requirement for such designations, reflects the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches. While Trump’s decision signals a shift in policy, the outcome remains contingent on congressional action. This procedural step highlights the complexity of U.S. foreign policy decisions, even for high-profile actions like this one.
Al-Sharaa’s Endorsement and Strategic Context
Al-Sharaa, who led a coalition of Islamist rebel factions in late 2024 to topple Assad, framed the removal of the terrorism designation as essential for the country’s recovery. Al-Sharaa’s public endorsement aligns with his administration’s efforts to attract international investment and stabilize the economy. The Syrian Central Bank Governor, Safwat Raslan, echoed this sentiment, stating the move would open wider aspects of investments and economic recovery.
The decision also carries historical significance. Syria was designated a state sponsor of terrorism in 1979, a label stemmed from the policies of the deposed regime. Trump’s action, while symbolic, reflects a broader strategy to reengage with Syria after years of isolation. The move has been welcomed by Syrian officials, who view it as a step toward reintegration into the global economy.
U.S. Investment and Regional Implications
This rhetoric aligns with broader U.S. efforts to counter Russian and Iranian influence in the Middle East by fostering economic partnerships. The move also coincides with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states pledging financial support for Syria’s recovery, signaling a potential shift in regional dynamics.
Next Steps and Unanswered Questions
The immediate next step is Congress’s 45-day review, which could either finalize the designation change or delay it. If approved, the move would mark a formal shift in U.S. policy toward Syria, potentially unlocking economic opportunities but also raising questions about accountability for past actions. Meanwhile, al-Sharaa’s government faces the challenge of translating this diplomatic breakthrough into tangible progress for Syria’s war-torn economy.
For now, the decision remains a fragile milestone. While it represents a rare moment of cooperation between the two nations, the long-term success of this policy shift will depend on how effectively Syria navigates its path to recovery and how the U.S. balances its anti-terrorism mandates with its strategic interests in the region.
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