Revocation of the Foreign Terrorist Organization Designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham: Overview and Analysis

It builds on the June 30 Executive Order for Syria sanctions revocation and acknowledges the efforts of the new Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa to foster stability.

SYRIA — On July 7, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the intent to revoke the Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), previously known as al-Nusrah Front, effective July 8.

This decision aligns with President Trump’s May 13 promise to provide sanctions relief to Syria, following the dissolution of HTS and the Syrian government’s commitment to combat terrorism. It builds on the June 30 Executive Order for Syria sanctions revocation and acknowledges the efforts of the new Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa to foster stability.

Main Points

• Revocation Date: The FTO designation of HTS will be lifted on July 8, 2025, under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

• Rationale: The decision follows HTS’s dissolution and Syria’s pledge to fight terrorism, supporting President Trump’s vision for a peaceful Syria.

• Policy Context: It is part of broader sanctions relief efforts, tied to the June 30 Executive Order and the new Syrian government’s positive steps.

Background on FTO Designation, Full Report: