Canada removes Syria from terrorism support list after extensive review

Ithas also delisted Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from the List of Terrorist Entities under the Criminal Code, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand and Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced Friday.

The move follows what the government called an extensive review and aligns with recent decisions by allies, including the United Kingdom and the United States.

Officials said the assessment reflects progress by Syria’s transitional government toward stabilising the country following the end of the Assad regime.

“These decisions were not taken lightly; the safety and security of Canadians will remain paramount,” the government said in a statement.

“Canada welcomes the positive steps taken by the Syrian transitional government since the end of the Assad regime towards a peaceful Syrian-led political transition,” Anand said.

“Canada stands steadfast with the people of Syria in their quest for an inclusive, stable, and prosperous future.”

Anandasangaree said​, “We will continue to closely monitor the situation in Syria and take measures against violent extremist or terrorist activity by ISIS and Al-Qaeda that poses a threat to Canada, our citizens and our interests around the world.”

The government said it remains committed to countering terrorism through partnerships such as the Global Coalition Against Daesh and will maintain accountability measures, including targeted sanctions.

Canada currently sanctions 56 Syrian entities and 225 individuals under the Special Economic Measures Act.

Between 2016 and 2025, Canada committed more than $4.7 billion in humanitarian, development, and stabilisation funding for Syria and neighbouring host countries and has resettled more than 100,000 Syrian refugees since 2015.