US Changes Defense Export Restrictions on Syria

The US Department of State announced that it has lifted defense export restrictions on Syria and that applications will henceforth be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Changes to the ITAR Regulation

The US Department of State implemented a new practice by making a significant change to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Within the scope of this change, Syria was officially removed from the list of countries where license applications for the export and import of defense items and services are directly denied.

Details of the New Defense Trade Policy

The final regulation published in the Federal Register was implemented in line with the new policy decision taken by the Secretary of State on August 19, 2026.

Under the new policy framework, applications for the transfer of defense articles and services to Syria will now be examined and decided upon individually on a case-by-case basis.

Legal Conditions and Exemptions

It was reported that this change in Syria's status took place after all necessary legal conditions were fulfilled, including the revocation of the state-sponsor of terrorism determination.

It was also stated that this step was taken after providing exemptions from certain restrictions under relevant US laws.

Historical Background and Process

The United States had enacted the initial defense trade restrictions against Syria on December 29, 1979.

This long-standing restrictive policy has been moved into an entirely new course with the Department of State's latest decision.