nuAug 28, 2026, 07:35

Payments to Syria easier now that country is off US terror list

Syria's removal from the United States list of state sponsors of terrorism has facilitated the resumption of international card payments in the country. While the U.S. has lifted various sanctions to support reconstruction efforts, many Dutch banks continue to restrict financial transfers to Syria due to ongoing internal policies.

Financial transactions with Syria have become easier following the country's removal from the United States list of state sponsors of terrorism. On Wednesday, the first card payments were successfully processed in Damascus through the Lebanon-based Fransabank, an event attended by Syrian officials including the central bank governor. While the system is not yet operational nationwide, this shift marks a significant change in the international economic landscape for the country.

The United States had designated Syria as a terror-supporting nation since 1979, which triggered extensive economic and defense-related sanctions. Recently, President Donald Trump removed Syria from this list and lifted additional sanctions, citing a desire to facilitate the reconstruction of the nation. Despite these changes, major financial institutions in the Netherlands still restrict transfers to Syria, maintaining policies that group the country with other sanctioned nations like Iran and North Korea until further international regulations are formally adjusted.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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