US removes Syria from terrorism list, sparking cautious optimism

The United States announced that it will remove Syria from the state sponsor of terrorism list, a move welcomed by many Syrians who hope it will revive the country’s war‑torn economy. The decision comes after the fall of Bashar al‑Assad’s regime in December 2024 and the establishment of an interim administration led by President Ahmed al‑Sharaa, who has been working to shed sanctions and attract foreign investment.

Syria’s economy has been crippled for over a decade by U.S. and EU sanctions, which the World Bank says caused a sharp drop in exports and a widening trade deficit. Removal of the terrorism‑sponsor designation is expected to ease banking restrictions and encourage international companies to return.

Local reactions are mixed but hopeful; “God willing, it will improve things,” said Ihab, a pastry‑shop owner in central Damascus. The announcement signals a shift in U.S. policy toward the region and could pave the way for Syria’s reintegration into the global economic system.