Canada Officially Delists Syria as a State Sponsor of Terrorism

Canada has officially removed Syria from its list of countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism, citing efforts by the Syrian transitional government to stabilize the nation as well as a similar move by the United States. This announcement, made on December 6, 2025, marks a significant diplomatic shift as Syria approaches the one-year anniversary of the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad.

The Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and aligns with recent actions by Western allies, including the United Kingdom and the United States. The ministry stated that these measures recognize the Syrian government’s efforts to build stability, security, and inclusivity for its citizens, while reinforcing regional stability and cooperation in counter-terrorism initiatives.

Delisting of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)

Alongside Syria’s removal from the terrorism list, Canada also revoked the terrorist designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the former al-Qaeda-linked group that played a key role in the opposition forces that ousted al-Assad. This decision mirrors moves by other Western nations seeking to engage more constructively with Syria’s new leadership.

Canada’s foreign ministry stressed that while these changes recognize the positive developments in Syria, it continues to maintain sanctions on 56 individuals tied to the previous Assad regime, including former officials and members of the ex-president’s family.

Syria’s Transition Under Ahmed al-Sharaa

Since assuming leadership following Assad’s exit, President Ahmed al-Sharaa has worked to distance Syria from its violent past and present a more moderate, inclusive image internationally. Al-Sharaa, who formerly led al-Qaeda’s Syrian branch, officially split from the organization in 2016. He has since abandoned his alias, Abu Mohammed al-Julani, in favor of his birth name, signaling a commitment to transparency and reform.

Earlier this year, al-Sharaa addressed the United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing Syria’s efforts to reclaim its place in the international community. The transitional government has actively sought to strengthen economic and diplomatic relations with both the United States and the European Union, positioning Syria as a partner in regional stability rather than a source of conflict.

Context of US Policy Toward Syria

Canada’s move follows similar actions by the United States, which partially suspended sanctions against Syria in June 2025 and extended the suspension in November after talks between al-Sharaa and then-US President Donald Trump. The United States also removed al-Sharaa from its list of specially designated global terrorists, recognizing the transitional government’s efforts to foster stability and cooperation with international partners.

Historical Context

Syria had been designated a state sponsor of terrorism since 2012, following al-Assad’s violent suppression of pro-democracy protests that triggered a devastating civil war. HTS was also widely sanctioned due to its links to al-Qaeda, limiting international engagement. With the new leadership under al-Sharaa, Western nations are recalibrating their approach to support peacebuilding, security, and counter-terrorism in Syria.

International Implications

The removal of Syria from the terrorism list and the delisting of HTS signal a potential diplomatic thaw and increased opportunities for international collaboration in the Middle East. Analysts suggest that these moves could encourage economic investment, humanitarian aid, and regional stability as Syria rebuilds after years of conflict.