US removes ‘terrorist’ label from former group of Syrian president’s opposition, HTS.
The United States has announced plans to revoke its designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), reflecting a significant shift in its foreign policy toward Syria in the wake of profound changes in the region. This decision, which will take effect on Tuesday, is part of a broader strategy initiated by U.S. leadership to support Syria’s reconstruction and foster stability after years of devastating conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the importance of this revocation, stating it aligns with efforts to realize President Trump’s vision of a “stable, unified, and peaceful” Syria. This policy shift comes after the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s government, leading to an evolving diplomatic landscape for the nation.
HTS has faced scrutiny since its formation, originating from the al-Nusra Front, which was previously associated with al-Qaeda. However, the group announced its independence in 2016 under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has since played a pivotal role in the Syrian opposition. Following a recent offensive that led to the removal of al-Assad, al-Sharaa has become the president of Syria and is engaging in a notable diplomatic charm offensive, reaching out to various Western powers, including recent meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and President Trump during a May visit to Riyadh.
The U.S. decision, along with simultaneous actions by the European Union to lift sanctions on Syria, signals a potential thaw in relations and a desire to normalize diplomatic ties. “Tomorrow’s action follows the announced dissolution of HTS and the Syrian government’s commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms,” Rubio noted, outlining a path for renewed international cooperation.
The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the U.S. decision as a meaningful step toward correcting previous policies that impeded constructive dialogue. They expressed hope that this development would facilitate the removal of remaining restrictions impacting Syrian institutions and officials and pave the way for a rational and sovereign-based approach to international engagement.
Despite HTS’s delisting by the U.S., it is important to note that the group remains under United Nations Security Council sanctions, reflective of its previous affiliations. Al-Sharaa himself is also subject to UNSC measures, which necessitate Council approval for any changes.
In the evolving geopolitical climate, this move by the U.S. may set the stage for further dialogue and reconstruction efforts in Syria, with the potential to positively influence relations in the wider Middle East context.
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