In a landmark trip, the new U.S. envoy to Syria, Thomas Barrack, raises the American flag and initiates discussions for a nonaggression pact with Israel amid restored ties.
U.S. Envoy's Historic Visit to Syria Signals Warming Relations
U.S. Envoy's Historic Visit to Syria Signals Warming Relations
Thomas Barrack emphasizes dialogue for peace and normalization with Israel.
The American flag has made a significant reappearance at the U.S. ambassador’s residence in Damascus for the first time in over a decade, marking a new chapter in U.S.-Syria relations. On May 29, 2025, Thomas Barrack, appointed by President Trump, arrived in Syria to advocate for collaboration with the country’s new leadership, aiming to stabilize the government following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad.
The timing of Mr. Barrack's visit aligns with President Trump's unexpected announcement to lift sanctions on Syria, coinciding with his recent meeting in Saudi Arabia with Ahmed al-Shara, Syria’s newly installed leader. The discussions in Damascus included talks with al-Shara and key Syrian officials, underlining the U.S. commitment to renegotiate relations and foster stability.
During his meetings, Barrack voiced a desire for Syria to pursue normalized relations with Israel, which he characterized as a promising opportunity for both nations. "It starts with a dialogue," he conveyed to reporters, indicating a preference for establishing a nonaggression agreement to discuss national boundaries and address longstanding territorial disputes.
This transformative initiative marks a strategic pivot for the Trump administration, creating a platform for renewed diplomacy with Syria and a hopeful outlook for future interactions within the region.
The timing of Mr. Barrack's visit aligns with President Trump's unexpected announcement to lift sanctions on Syria, coinciding with his recent meeting in Saudi Arabia with Ahmed al-Shara, Syria’s newly installed leader. The discussions in Damascus included talks with al-Shara and key Syrian officials, underlining the U.S. commitment to renegotiate relations and foster stability.
During his meetings, Barrack voiced a desire for Syria to pursue normalized relations with Israel, which he characterized as a promising opportunity for both nations. "It starts with a dialogue," he conveyed to reporters, indicating a preference for establishing a nonaggression agreement to discuss national boundaries and address longstanding territorial disputes.
This transformative initiative marks a strategic pivot for the Trump administration, creating a platform for renewed diplomacy with Syria and a hopeful outlook for future interactions within the region.
