US Removal of Syria from Terror Sponsor List 'Blow' to Victims, Impact on Sectarian Violence Unknown

Washington's decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism has been met with strong criticism from legal representatives of American victims, who call it a "heavy blow." Aryeh Portnoy, a lawyer with Crowell & Moring representing these victims, stated that declaring Syria "open for business without accounting for the Americans whose lives were destroyed by Syrian state-sponsored terrorism" is devastating.

The removal, officially posted on the US Treasury's website, took effect after a 45-day congressional review period. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited "positive actions taken and further commitments by the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa to fully distance Syria from acts of international terrorism" as the basis for rescinding the designation. However, this justification has been challenged by those who argue it diminishes the experiences of victims.

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These actions were all taken in recognition of the positive actions taken and further commitments by the Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa to fully distance Syria from acts of international terrorism.

While some suggest the move will aid Syria's financial recovery and stability after years of civil war, the implications for American victims seeking compensation remain uncertain. It is unclear whether Syria will be required to contribute to outstanding judgments or future lawsuits through the US Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, which typically uses seized assets and settlements from sanctioned entities. This contrasts with other countries removed from the list, which have often compensated US victims as part of their agreements.

Adding to the complexity, the Anti-Defamation League is pursuing a lawsuit against Syria, North Korea, and Iran on behalf of 130 US citizens killed or injured during the October 7 attacks, alleging material support for Hamas. This ongoing legal action highlights the lingering questions about Syria's accountability for past acts of terrorism and its alleged role in enabling further violence, even under new leadership.

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declaring Syria “open for business without accounting for the Americans whose lives were destroyed by Syrian state-sponsored terrorism” was devastating to its victims.