The recent conflict between Iran and Israel presents a critical opening for renewed peace efforts in the Middle East, according to Tom Barrack, the U.S. special envoy for Syria.
Tom Barrack © MEST
The recent conflict between Iran and Israel presents a critical opening for renewed peace efforts in the Middle East, according to Tom Barrack, the U.S. special envoy for Syria.
Speaking on Sunday, Barrack stressed the importance of establishing peace agreements between Israel, Syria, and Lebanon, describing the current moment as a rare diplomatic opportunity.
“President al-Sharaa has indicated he does not hate Israel and wants peace along that border,” Barrack said. “I believe the same is possible with Lebanon. An agreement with Israel is necessary.”
The envoy called the aftermath of the Iran–Israel war a chance to reset regional dynamics.
“What just happened between Israel and Iran is a moment for all of us to say, ‘Pause! Let’s build a new path,’” he said, adding that Türkiye plays a key role in shaping this new regional order.
Barrack also addressed ongoing tensions between Turkey and the United States, particularly over Ankara’s removal from the F-35 fighter jet program and the U.S. sanctions imposed on Turkey. He expressed optimism about resolving these disputes.
“I’m confident we will have an opportunity to find a solution by the end of the year,” he said, signaling hope for a thaw in bilateral defense and economic relations.
The remarks reflect growing momentum for both regional reconciliation and diplomatic resets, as the fallout from the Iran–Israel conflict prompts a reevaluation of alliances and priorities in the Middle East.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday Israel would have to make a decision on next steps in Gaza, adding he did not know what would happen after the collapse of ceasefire and hostage-release negotiations with Hamas.
Syria is expected to hold its first parliamentary election under the new administration in September, the head of the electoral process told state news agency SANA on Sunday.
Israel said on Sunday it would halt military operations each day for 10 hours in parts of Gaza and allow new aid corridors in the enclave.
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