International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Syria Country Policy Revision
What happened
The Department of State amended the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to remove Syria from the list of countries where licenses and other approvals for defense articles and services are automatically denied. This change, effective October 1, 2026, means such requests for Syria will now be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The Secretary of State approved this new defense trade policy for Syria on August 19, 2026, after statutory prerequisites, including the rescission of certain terrorism-support determinations and other restrictions, were met. The rule was signed by Thomas G. DiNanno, Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security, Department of State.
Why it matters
This policy change could open the door for more defense-related trade with Syria, as requests will no longer face an automatic denial. Businesses seeking to export or import defense articles and services to or from Syria may now have their applications considered. This indicates a shift in the U.S. government's approach to defense trade relations with Syria.
Who it affects
- ›U.S. Department of State
- ›Defense article and service exporters
- ›Defense article and service importers
- ›Companies trading with Syria
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