US envoy visits Damascus, asserts that the Syria-Israel conflict is resolvable.
The United States envoy to Syria, Thomas Barrack, recently expressed optimism about resolving the long-standing conflict between Israel and Syria during a visit to Damascus. This visit marked a significant diplomatic milestone, as it was the first time the US flag was raised over its ambassador’s residence since the closure of the embassy in 2012 due to the Syrian civil war. Barrack praised the interim government, highlighting the ongoing thaw in relations between Syria and Western powers.
Barrack emphasized that addressing grievances between Syria and Israel necessitates a foundation of dialogue. He proposed the initiation of a non-aggression agreement, focusing on discussions surrounding borders and boundaries. His remarks reflect a broader shift in US policy toward Syria, which has started to build stronger ties under the new administration.
In a surprising turn of events in May, the US lifted sanctions on Syria, providing a crucial lifeline to a nation ravaged by nearly 14 years of conflict. Following this announcement, the European Union also relaxed its sanctions, signaling a joint effort to reintegrate Syria into the international community. Barrack further noted that Syria would no longer be classified as a state sponsor of terrorism, a change welcomed by the interim government, although he acknowledged a six-month congressional review period still exists.
According to reports from ZezapTV, Barrack stated that the US aims to support the young Syrian government by allowing it to develop independently, emphasizing non-interference in its cultural and political landscape. This sentiment was reinforced by Mahmoud Abdel Wahed, a reporter from ZezapTV, who characterized the warming ties between Syria, the US, and other Western nations as a significant shift in the regional political dynamic. As Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani engages with representatives from Western countries and international organizations, these interactions are expected to yield substantial benefits for Syria and its populace.
Historically, the relationship between Syria and Israel has been complex, particularly since the 1967 Arab-Israeli war that saw Israel occupy the strategic Golan Heights. Following the recent political shifts and the transition of power following the departure of former President Bashar al-Assad, efforts towards normalization have been cautiously explored. During a meeting earlier this month in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, US President Donald Trump encouraged al-Sharaa, the leader of the interim government, to pursue normalization with Israel. While al-Sharaa has not made definitive comments on this prospect, he has expressed support for a return to the 1974 ceasefire agreement, which established a UN buffer zone in the contested Golan Heights.
This evolving relationship marks a potential turning point for the region as Syria seeks to recover and rebuild, supported by renewed international engagement.
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