Image: from Nedal Al-Amari X @nedalalamari
By Open Chronicle
The United States has taken a significant step toward restoring relations with Syria after President Donald Trump formally informed Congress of his administration’s intention to remove the country from the U.S. list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. The move represents one of the most consequential changes in Washington’s policy toward Damascus in decades and is expected to pave the way for expanded investment and economic engagement.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Congress has been notified following the required 45-day pre-notification period. Under U.S. law, lawmakers will now review the proposal during a further 45-day period before the decision can officially take effect.
Rubio described the measure as part of a broader effort to help Syria rebuild after years of conflict.
“Today, President Trump informed Congress of his administration’s intent to rescind Syria’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism,” Rubio said, adding that lifting the designation would create new opportunities for trade, investment and economic recovery.
According to the administration, removing Syria from the terrorism list would eliminate several long-standing restrictions on U.S. assistance, defence exports, and financial transactions that have remained in place for decades.
BREAKING: Trump says he will remove Syria from the state sponsor of terrorism list pic.twitter.com/11Sv9RH3kd
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) July 8, 2026
Letter Sent to Syrian President
President Trump also sent a letter to Syrian President Ahmed al Sharaa, reaffirming his commitment to supporting Syria’s reconstruction.
“I promised to remove all barriers stopping you from rebuilding your country, and very soon, you will finally be able to do so,” Trump wrote.
He also said American companies are prepared to invest in Syria once restrictions are lifted.
“We have U.S. companies ready to invest in Syria and help make your country greater and more prosperous than ever before.”
According to U.S. officials, the letter was delivered after Trump and Sharaa met on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Ankara.
Economic Impact Expected
Syrian Central Bank Governor Safwat Raslan welcomed the announcement, describing it as an important opportunity to revive the country’s economy and reconnect Syria with international financial markets.
The policy change follows an executive order signed by Trump last year that ended a broad U.S. sanctions programme against Syria, opening the door to renewed commercial activity.
Several Gulf nations, led by Saudi Arabia, have already announced plans for major investments aimed at supporting Syria’s reconstruction, while other regional governments have pledged additional financial assistance.
A Dramatic Shift in Relations
The move reflects a remarkable transformation in relations between Washington and Damascus.
President Ahmed al Sharaa previously led Syria’s Nusra Front before publicly severing ties with al Qaeda in 2016. He later headed a coalition of rebel factions that overthrew former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.
Since assuming office, Sharaa has sought closer engagement with Western and regional governments while cooperating with international efforts against the Islamic State.
President Trump praised the Syrian leader during recent remarks.
“He’s respected by everybody, including me,” Trump said.
If Congress does not block the proposal during its review period, Syria will officially lose its designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, potentially opening a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations between Washington and Damascus.