FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUST 24, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Syrian Emergency Task Force (SETF) welcomes the United States’ formal removal of Syria from the State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST) list, an important step toward a stable and prosperous Syria in which freedom and democracy prevail.
Despite sanctions and designations Syrians have been working to build a new Syria free of the tyranny of the Assad regime. Today, a year and a half after the fall of the dictator, Syrians are celebrating the lifting of the last designation hindering Syria’s future. SETF is hopeful that with this significant barrier now removed, Syrians can build on the progress they have already made and have an easier road toward recovery and reintegration.
“Today’s removal of Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list closes a decades-long chapter written by the Assad regime, not the Syrian people. This is a victory won by Syrians themselves, and it clears the way for the investment and reconstruction Syria urgently needs. The era of Syria relying on authoritarian regimes like Russia, Iran, and China is over, and today Syria is part of the community of nations that value democracy, and oppose corruption and terrorism. Today is a milestone all freedom loving people should celebrate,” expressed Mouaz Moustafa, SETF’s Executive Director.
SETF is proud of its role in advocating for the lifting of all sanctions and designations against Syria including the SST designation. SETF is committed to supporting the Syrian people in achieving their aspirations for a free, democratic, and united Syria, and is proud to see the United States taking meaningful steps to support that vision.
For inquiries, please contact:
Maria Cure, Director of Communications
[email protected] www.setf.ngo
About the Syrian Emergency Task Force
The Syrian Emergency Task Force (SETF) is a Syrian-American 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. Dedicated to advancing Syria’s future after the fall of the Assad regime, SETF supports a democratic transition, leads humanitarian efforts, and works to secure justice and accountability for war crimes committed by the regime and its allies. Today, SETF stands as the most notable American organization working on Syria, as evidenced by the impact it has made both on the ground in Syria and the U.S. SETF serves as a resource for education by bringing the voices of the Syrian people to the international stage. From testimonies at the UN Security Council to local grassroots community fundraisers, the team brings together like-minded people who are committed to rebuilding a peaceful, democratic Syria after enduring years of brutality under a repressive dictatorship.
