US Removes ‘Al-Nusra Front’ from Terror List

The United States has officially removed the al-Nusra Front, also known as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), from its list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, signaling a significant change in its approach to Syria policy.

The decision comes as Washington continues easing sanctions on Damascus following years of diplomatic and economic isolation.

A US State Department memorandum dated June 23 and signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the move, which follows consultations with the Department of Justice and the Treasury. The policy update is scheduled for formal publication in the Federal Register.

This development follows a recent executive order signed by former President Donald Trump, which ended the US sanctions program targeting Syria. The shift aims to reintegrate Syria into the global financial system and support reconstruction efforts after more than a decade of civil war.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, previously known as the al-Nusra Front, had long been associated with al-Qaeda before severing ties and rebranding. Under the leadership of Ahmed al-Shara, now president of Syria, HTS repositioned itself as a major opposition force and participated in a coalition-led offensive that resulted in the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad.

Since distancing itself from global jihadist networks, HTS has expressed goals aligned with national reform, including the establishment of a more inclusive political order in Syria. Despite its controversial history, the group has played a central role in shaping the country’s new political landscape.

The delisting is part of a broader recalibration of US policy in the Middle East. It follows a high-level meeting between President Trump and Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara in Riyadh in May, where the decision to lift sanctions was first announced.

US officials believe that ending Syria’s isolation and supporting pragmatic actors could create new avenues for stability and growth in the region. The delisting of HTS is expected to facilitate international dialogue, support humanitarian relief, and encourage further reconciliation in post-conflict Syria.