United States removes Syria from arms export ban list
The United States has removed Syria from its list of countries barred from buying or importing US weapons, marking another step in Washington's easing of restrictions on the country. The change means defence articles and defence services can now be reviewed for Syria on a case-by-case basis. The move was set out in an amendment to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, or ITAR, published on Wednesday.
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According to the notice, the Secretary of State approved a new defence trade policy for Syria on 19 August 2026. That policy allows the review of transfers of defence articles and services to Syria through individual licensing decisions. The amendment also removes Syria from the list of countries for which the United States policy is to deny licences and other approvals for exports and imports of defence-related goods.
The decision comes as the Trump administration continues to loosen restrictions that were imposed during the Assad era. Former President Bashar al-Assad was ousted by rebels in December 2024, ending decades of rule by the al-Assad family. Syria's current president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has sought closer ties with Washington and relief from sanctions that he says are slowing the country's recovery after years of civil war.
The policy shift is significant because it opens the door, at least in principle, to regulated defence trade between the two countries. It also reflects a broader change in US policy toward Damascus, following earlier steps that included easing some economic sanctions and removing Syria's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism in August. The United States also said in February that it planned to eventually reopen its embassy in Damascus, which has been closed since 2012.
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The latest move is part of a gradual recalibration in relations after a long period of isolation. Syria's new leadership has been trying to secure international recognition and economic relief while presenting itself as a partner for reconstruction and stability. At the same time, the government in Damascus faces the challenge of rebuilding institutions and infrastructure after a devastating conflict that reshaped the country's political and security landscape.
What remains unclear is how many defence-related requests, if any, will be approved under the new licensing system. The amendment does not amount to an open-ended arms transfer policy, and each case will still be reviewed individually. The next developments to watch are whether US agencies begin processing applications and whether the change leads to further diplomatic or economic steps between Washington and Damascus.
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