The US administration is planning to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, marking a significant shift in American foreign policy toward the Middle East. This development was confirmed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in an interview with CNN, as reported by the Operative Information Center-OMM.
According to the details provided, the lifting of sanctions imposed on Syria is expected to restore the country's access to international trade and investment markets. Secretary Rubio noted that this strategic move will create vital opportunities for the reconstruction of Syria and signifies the beginning of a new chapter in the nation's history.
The US administration officially notified Congress of this decision on July 8. Under US legislation, a 45-day advance notification period is required before such a change in status can be finalized.
This decision follows a recent diplomatic engagement between the transitional president of Syria, Ahmad al-Sharaa, and US President Donald Trump. During a phone conversation, the Syrian leadership urged Washington to lift all existing restrictions imposed on the country, paving the way for normalization.
The designation of a country as a state sponsor of terrorism by the US Department of State carries severe economic and political consequences, including restrictions on foreign assistance, a ban on defense exports, and various financial constraints. The removal of this status is a complex diplomatic process that involves rigorous review and congressional oversight, reflecting a major recalibration of US-Syria relations.
