Syria drops off U.S. terrorism sponsor list, sanctions rules revamped
Published Date: 9/25/2026
Rule
Summary
The U.S. Treasury is updating rules because Syria is no longer labeled a State Sponsor of Terrorism. This means a special permission for Syria-related activities is being removed since it’s no longer needed. The change takes effect on September 25, 2026, and affects anyone dealing with Syria under these sanctions.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Syria removed from Terrorism List
The Secretary of State rescinded Syria's designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, effective August 24, 2026. As a result, the Government of Syria is no longer a "Terrorism List Government" for purposes of the Terrorism List Governments Sanctions Regulations (31 CFR part 596).
Syria-specific general license removed
OFAC is removing and reserving the Syria-specific general license at 31 CFR 596.505 because that authorization is no longer necessary following the rescission of Syria's designation. This regulatory text change is effective September 25, 2026.
Willful violations may carry criminal penalties
The rule states that willful violations of the regulations set forth in this final rule may be subject to criminal penalties under 50 U.S.C. 1705, and that the statutory authority for criminal liability requires a mens rea of willfulness pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1705(c).
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