US Moves to Remove Syria From Terror List, Signaling Shift in Policy

The United States announced plans to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism for the first time in nearly 50 years. The designation, in place since 1979, has severely limited Syria's ability to attract foreign investment. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the decision followed "official assurances" from Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Muhammad al-Julani, that Damascus will not support international terrorism in the future. The delisting is expected to take effect within 45 days, leaving only Iran, North Korea, and Cuba on the list.

This move marks a significant policy shift by the Trump administration, described by Rubio as "another historic step" to offer the Syrian people a chance for prosperity. Syria's original designation stemmed from its ties to the Assad regime and support for Palestinian armed groups, including alleged involvement in a 1986 plot against Israeli airline El Al. More recently, Syria's alliance with Iran and Hezbollah contributed to its blacklisting.

For Israel, the US decision highlights a growing divergence in approaches to Syria. While Washington appears to reward the new Syrian leadership with economic openings, Israel remains wary, especially after Trump hinted at possible Syrian-Israeli cooperation against Hezbollah, a claim al-Julani quickly denied.

In related global news, China conducted a long-range missile test in the South Pacific shortly after Australia and Fiji signed a defense pact, raising regional tensions. Meanwhile, the UK granted a posthumous pardon to Ruth Ellis, the last woman executed in Britain, acknowledging historical injustice. In India, robotic elephants are being introduced in Hindu festivals as humane alternatives to live animals, sparking controversy among traditional elephant traders.