Trump Moves to Remove Syria from U.S. Terrorism List

U.S. President Donald Trump has informed Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa that he has decided to remove Syria from the United States' list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, marking a significant shift in Washington's policy toward Damascus.

In a letter delivered to al-Sharaa following their meeting in Ankara on Wednesday, Trump said the move aimed to help Syria rebuild after years of conflict.

"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 added that American companies were prepared to invest in Syria and support its economic recovery, saying they were ready to help make the country "greater and more prosperous than ever before."

Trump also confirmed that he had formally notified the U.S. Congress of the decision. Under U.S. law, lawmakers will now conduct a 45-day review before Syria can officially be removed from the terrorism list.

The designation currently imposes restrictions on U.S. foreign assistance, defense exports, and certain financial transactions with Syria.

The announcement follows an executive order signed by Trump last month that ended a long-standing U.S. sanctions program against Syria, paving the way for the country's gradual reintegration into the international financial system.