The United States has removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism and lifted the 'terrorist' designation of HTS, the group formerly led by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, according to Al Jazeera.
Live updates
Loading updates…
Key facts
- The US removed Syria from its 'state sponsor of terrorism' list.
- Washington also rescinded the designation of HTS as a 'terrorist' organisation.
- HTS was formerly led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
- The move was reported by Al Jazeera on August 24, 2026.
The United States has removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, according to Al Jazeera. The decision marks a significant shift in Washington’s posture toward the country.
As part of the same move, Washington also rescinded its designation of HTS as a ‘terrorist’ organisation, Al Jazeera reported. HTS was formerly led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
The ‘state sponsor of terrorism’ designation is one of the most consequential labels the US government applies to a country, and its removal signals a change in the official US assessment of Syria.
Al Jazeera’s report, published on August 24, 2026, did not detail the full scope of the changes or the reasoning behind them beyond the removal of the country designation and the rescinding of the HTS designation.
The developments concern both the standing of the Syrian state and the status of HTS, the group previously headed by al-Sharaa, who is now the country’s president according to the outlet.
Why it matters
A 'state sponsor of terrorism' designation carries wide-ranging consequences, and its removal reflects a notable change in US policy toward Syria. Rescinding the terrorist label on HTS, once led by the country's current president, further signals a shift in how Washington views Syria's leadership.
Frequently asked questions
What did the US do regarding Syria?
According to Al Jazeera, the US removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism.
What happened to HTS's designation?
Washington rescinded the designation of HTS, formerly led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, as a 'terrorist' organisation, Al Jazeera reported.
Who led HTS?
HTS was formerly led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, who is now Syria's president, according to Al Jazeera.
Timeline
- US removes Syria from list of state sponsors of terrorism
BBC World: The Trump administration has embraced Syria's new president, former al-Qaeda militant Ahmed al-Sharaa.
- US removes Syria from ‘state sponsor of terrorism’ list
Al Jazeera: Washington also rescinded designation of HTS, formerly led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, as a 'terrorist' organisation.