Canada removes Syria, HTS from terrorism list

Canada has removed Syria from its list of terrorism-designated countries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Friday (December 5).

Alongside Syria, Canada also delisted Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—a prominent anti-Assad rebel group—from its roster of terrorist organisations, reports Reuters.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said the update aligns with recent decisions by the United Kingdom and the United States. The revised designation takes into account Syria’s interim government’s efforts to enhance stability, pursue an inclusive political future, and contribute to global counterterrorism initiatives.

HTS had long been one of the most powerful rebel factions during Syria’s protracted civil war. The group was led by Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said, “Canada welcomes the Syrian government’s peaceful political transition. We stand with the people of Syria on their path toward an inclusive, stable, and prosperous future.”