DID Press: UN has removed Ahmad al-Shara, Syria’s interim head of state, from its list of individuals associated with terrorism. The move follows political developments in Syria, including the dissolution of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and structural changes within the Syrian government.
Ahmad al-Shara, formerly known as Abu Muhammad al-Julani, previously led the HTS terrorist group. His removal from the UN terrorism list reflects the broader political and governmental shifts in Syria.
In January 2025, following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime, HTS announced the cessation of its activities and declared itself disbanded as a terrorist organization. The decision came amid evolving domestic policies and international considerations.
With al-Shara’s name removed from the UN list, opportunities have opened for Syria to rebuild relations with the international community and participate in political and economic processes. Analysts see this step as a signal of changing international policies and recognition of Syria’s new political realities.
In a recent address to the UN General Assembly, Ahmad al-Shara called for an end to sanctions and emphasized the need for international cooperation in reconstructing Syria.
Observers note that the UN’s action was reportedly made with the tacit approval of the United States, whose President, Donald Trump, met with al-Shara on the sidelines of the recent UN General Assembly, effectively granting him a measure of international legitimacy.