Tue Jul 22 04:57:34 UTC 2025: **The Hindu: U.S. Envoy Backs Syrian Government, Critiques Israeli Intervention**

**Beirut, July 22, 2025:** U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, has reaffirmed Washington’s support for the current Syrian government amidst ongoing instability, stating there is “no Plan B” to working with the existing authorities to unite the war-torn nation.

In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press during a visit to Beirut, Barrack addressed the recent outbreak of sectarian violence in Syria, specifically the clashes between Druze militias and Sunni Bedouin tribes in Sweida province. While acknowledging the severity of the situation, including alleged atrocities committed by government forces, Barrack maintained that the Syrian government has “conducted themselves as best they can” given their limited resources. He later added that the Syrian authorities “need to be held accountable” for violations.

Barrack took a critical stance towards Israel’s intervention in Sweida, calling it “poorly timed” and a complication to stabilization efforts. Israel launched strikes on Syrian government convoys and even targeted the Ministry of Defense in Damascus in response to the conflict, claiming to act in defense of the Druze minority.

“The United States was not asked, nor did they participate in that decision,” Barrack stated, adding that Israel’s actions created a “confusing chapter.” He further suggested Israel might prefer a fragmented Syria rather than a strong, unified state.

Barrack announced a ceasefire agreement between Syria and Israel over the weekend, limited to the Sweida conflict, and emphasized that broader issues between the two countries remain unresolved. Discussions leading up to the ceasefire focused on the movement of Syrian forces and equipment.

Despite the recent violence, Barrack expressed optimism about ongoing negotiations between the Syrian government and Kurdish forces to merge the Syrian Democratic Forces with the national army. He also noted the U.S. has “no position” on a potential defense pact between Syria and Turkey.

Turning to Lebanon, Barrack acknowledged the failure of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, with Israel continuing airstrikes in Lebanon. While the U.S. has been pushing for Hezbollah’s disarmament, Barrack characterized the matter as “internal” to Lebanon, stating the U.S. cannot compel Israel to halt its strikes.

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