US removes Syria from terror list, lifts aviation flight restriction

The United States has removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, ending a designation that had stood since 1979. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed the rescission on August 24, 2026, after a mandatory 45-day review period in Congress.

Alongside that move, the State Department waived remaining restrictions under a chemical weapons-related law that had barred Syrian-owned or controlled aircraft from flying to or from the United States. Congress received notice of the waiver the same day. It takes effect 20 days later, according to the Treasury Department.

Rubio said the decision opens new possibilities for Syria's economic recovery, according to a statement from the State Department. Officials there said the move reflects commitments by the government of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to cut ties with international terrorism.

The waiver does not automatically clear any Syrian airline to fly to the US. Carriers would still need to secure economic, safety, security and operational approvals before starting service.

The change may have a faster effect on companies outside Syria than on Syrian airlines themselves. Aircraft manufacturers, parts suppliers, leasing firms, insurers and banks weighing business with Syria face reduced sanctions and compliance risk as a result.

The shift builds on earlier steps. President Donald Trump ended the national emergency underpinning the prior Syria sanctions regime in an executive order issued June 30, 2025, and Congress has since repealed related sanctions legislation. Some restrictions on aircraft and parts transfers to Syria reportedly remain in place despite the broader easing.