Canada Removes Syria from List of States Sponsoring Terrorism
Canada has officially removed Syria from its list of states that support terrorism, a decision mirroring actions taken by the United States and acknowledging the efforts of the Syrian transitional government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, to stabilize the nation. The announcement marks a significant shift in Canada’s foreign policy towards the region.
The decision, revealed on Friday, arrives as Syria commemorates one year since the removal of Bashar al-Assad, who ruled the country for decades. Alongside Syria, Canada also revoked the “terrorist” designation for Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that spearheaded the alliance instrumental in removing al-Assad from power.
“These measures were not taken lightly,” stated the Canadian foreign ministry in a press release. “They align with recent decisions by allies, including the United Kingdom and the United States, and reflect the efforts by the Syrian transitional government to advance Syria’s stability, build an inclusive and secure future for its citizens, and collaborate with global partners to reinforce regional stability and counter terrorism.”
Background to the Delisting
Canada initially designated Syria as a “state supporter of terrorism” in 2012, during the height of the Syrian civil war, which erupted after al-Assad's brutal suppression of pro-democracy protests. The conflict led to a protracted and devastating civil war, drawing in numerous regional and international actors. HTS, formerly associated with al-Qaeda, faced widespread sanctions due to its ties to the terrorist organization. However, several Western states have since delisted the group to facilitate better collaboration with the new Syrian government in addressing regional security concerns.
Syria's Efforts Towards Reform
Since assuming power, Syria’s new leaders have actively sought to distance themselves from the country’s violent past and project a more moderate image both domestically and internationally. This includes implementing reforms aimed at fostering inclusivity, promoting human rights, and rebuilding the nation's infrastructure. Ahmed al-Sharaa's government has also prioritized strengthening economic ties with the US and the European Union, signaling a desire for greater integration with the global community.
Sanctions Remain on Individuals
Despite the delisting, Canada is maintaining sanctions on 56 Syrian individuals, including former officials from al-Assad’s regime and members of the former president’s family. This measure underscores Canada's commitment to holding individuals accountable for past human rights abuses and ensuring that those responsible for the country's turmoil do not benefit from the changing political landscape.
US Engagement with the New Syrian Government
The United States partially suspended sanctions against Syria in June and extended the suspension in November, following discussions between al-Sharaa and then-US President Donald Trump at the White House. Prior to that meeting, the US had removed al-Sharaa from the list of “specially designated global terrorists.” Al-Sharaa, who once led al-Qaeda’s branch in Syria, disassociated himself from the group in 2016.
Al-Sharaa's Transformation
Since the removal of al-Assad, al-Sharaa has actively worked to reshape his image, adopting his birth name and advocating for a tolerant and inclusive Syria. He addressed the United Nations General Assembly, affirming his country’s commitment to reclaiming its place among the nations of the world. These efforts reflect a broader strategy to reintegrate Syria into the international community and foster a more stable and prosperous future.
