U.S. envoy meets Syrian leadership in Damascus to discuss regional stability

On Wednesday, Tom Barrack, serving as the United States’ ambassador to Turkey and special envoy for Syria and Iraq, convened with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani inside Damascus’ People’s Palace. Barrack characterized the encounter as productive, noting that Syria’s destiny is central to securing enduring peace across the Middle East. He linked the dialogue to President Donald Trump’s broader vision for a secure and prosperous region.

The talks occurred a day after Barrack urged an end to Israeli strikes on Syrian territory during a security forum in Qatar, where he also expressed uncertainty about direct U.S. intervention. The meeting underscores Washington’s effort to align interests with Damascus amid ongoing regional tensions.