Washington: The US announced on Monday the potential removal of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group from its terror list, coinciding with the lifting of sanctions on post-Assad Syria.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US State Department has declared its intent to review the terror designation of HTS and consider fully suspending the Caesar Act sanctions on Syria. This move aligns with a directive from US President Donald Trump, who is exploring further sanctions relief through the United Nations. The review also includes the Specially Designated Global Terrorist designations of HTS and Syria's President Ahmad al-Sharaa, along with Syria's State Sponsor of Terrorism designation.

The State Department's statement emphasized the significance of these actions, suggesting they herald a new chapter for Syria as the nation seeks to establish a future characterized by safety, stability, and success.

The White House communicated on Monday that Trump has signed an executive order terminating the US sanctions program on Syria. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that this decision aims to facilitate Syria's journey toward stability and peace.

In May, Trump revealed at an investment forum in Riyadh his plans to lift the 'brutal and crippling' sanctions on Syria. Following this announcement, he met with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Saudi Arabia, marking the first meeting between US and Syrian leaders in 25 years.

The recent shift in US policy comes after the ousting of longtime Syrian ruler Bashar Assad, who fled to Russia following the capture of Damascus by anti-regime forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, on December 8.