Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's Shift from Terrorism to Counterterrorism in Syria

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), once designated as a terrorist organization, has transitioned into a recognized authority participating in counterterrorism efforts in Syria. This transformation reflects a significant shift in both its internal governance and its external relations, particularly with international actors.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

Following the fall of the Assad regime, HTS was initially viewed through the lens of terrorism, facing sanctions and international isolation. However, by late 2025, the United States and the United Nations began to reassess HTS's role, culminating in its removal from terrorist lists. This change was influenced by HTS's commitment to combatting the Islamic State and its integration into the Syrian transitional administration.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

In December 2024, the U.S. canceled a reward for information on HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, signaling a shift in perception. By July 2025, HTS was removed from the U.S. terrorist list, and in November 2025, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2799, lifting sanctions on al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab. This marked HTS's formal entry into the international coalition against the Islamic State, allowing it to participate in operational coordination and threat assessments.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

Despite these advancements, concerns remain regarding HTS's internal composition. Incidents involving members of the transitional administration, including the killing of American soldiers by an individual linked to HTS, raised alarms about the presence of jihadist elements within the new security apparatus. Critics argue that the international community's willingness to overlook these incidents undermines the integrity of counterterrorism efforts.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

The transitional administration has publicly committed to combating Islamic State cells and has engaged in security consultations with international partners. However, the handling of incidents involving extremist elements has been framed as isolated events rather than indicative of broader structural issues within the administration.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

Domestically, the transitional administration has abolished the Counterterrorism Court, shifting terrorism-related cases to ordinary criminal courts. This move reflects a broader strategy to normalize certain forms of violence associated with militant groups while emphasizing individual accountability. Critics note that this approach allows HTS to evade scrutiny over its violent past and the implications of its governance.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

As HTS continues to navigate its new role, the international community's engagement will likely depend on its ability to manage security threats effectively. The ongoing integration of HTS into the counterterrorism framework raises questions about the long-term implications for governance and security in Syria.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

• “The transition from the terrorism list to partnership in fighting terrorism reflects a repositioning within an international system that distributes legitimacy according to actors’ ability to control transnational militant groups.” — Analyst, Daraj Media

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

• “The classification of terrorism therefore depends less on the scale of violence than on the authority to define it.” — Expert, Daraj Media

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

• “Despite their seriousness, these incidents did not trigger any reconsideration of the gradual international recognition extended to the new leadership.” — Commentator, Daraj Media

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

• “The new Syrian state has not abandoned the language of terrorism; it has redeployed it within its own political framework.” — Political Analyst, Daraj Media

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically

This article outlines the complex dynamics surrounding Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's evolution from a terrorist organization to a recognized partner in counterterrorism, highlighting the implications of this shift for both Syria and the international community.

From the “Terrorist Lists” to “Fighting Terrorism”: How Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Repositioned Itself Politically