On May 29, 2025, newly appointed U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack made his first official visit to Syria, marking a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic relations. The trip coincided with President Trump's announcement about lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria, a gesture aimed at fostering political stability after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
New U.S. Envoy Strengthens Ties with Syria During Historic Visit
New U.S. Envoy Strengthens Ties with Syria During Historic Visit
Thomas Barrack’s inaugural trip to Syria signals a shift in U.S. foreign policy as the Trump administration aims for closer relations with Damascus.
During his visit to Damascus, Barrack ceremoniously raised the American flag over the U.S. ambassador's residence, a symbolic act that hadn’t occurred in over ten years. His discussions with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara and key officials focused on establishing a nonaggression agreement with Israel, emphasizing the need for dialogue and resolving longstanding territorial disputes.
"We need to start with just a nonaggression agreement, talk about boundaries and borders," Barrack stated, echoing President Trump’s recent calls for Syria to move towards normalizing relations with Israel. This optimistic approach illustrates a clear pivot in U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration, hoping to build a stronger partnership with Syria's new leadership while enhancing regional stability.
"We need to start with just a nonaggression agreement, talk about boundaries and borders," Barrack stated, echoing President Trump’s recent calls for Syria to move towards normalizing relations with Israel. This optimistic approach illustrates a clear pivot in U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration, hoping to build a stronger partnership with Syria's new leadership while enhancing regional stability.
