US Lifts Terror Label on Syria's HTS Amid Transitional Phase

The United States, under President Donald Trump's administration, has revoked the designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a foreign terrorist organization, following the group's overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. This decision aligns with Trump's earlier move to lift most sanctions against Syria, aiming to support the country's reintegration into the global economy and promote regional stability. HTS, previously affiliated with al-Qaeda but having severed ties in 2016, now controls significant parts of Syria with Ahmed al-Sharaa serving as interim president. The U.S. action has been cautiously welcomed internationally, including by Western countries and Syria's new leadership, with some concerns remaining about the internal governance of the new regime. The State Department emphasized ongoing monitoring of Syria's steps toward normalized relations with Israel and counterterrorism efforts. Additionally, the UK has shown support by lifting certain sanctions and providing financial aid to foster recovery and assist refugees.