Ankara, Turkey – The US envoy to Syria, Thomas Barak, said on Sunday that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led militia that has been a key US ally in the fight against ISIS, must be integrated into the new Syrian state.
Barak stressed that the only legitimate party to deal with in Syria now is the Syrian government, led by President Ahmad Al-Shara (also known as Abu Muhammad al-Julani), emphasizing the importance of including the SDF in the state’s institutions given their role in combating ISIS alongside US forces.
He also called for fair representation for Syria’s other communities, including Druze and Alawites, adding that this path will take time but is inevitable, according to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency.
Barak expressed hope for a possible peace agreement between Syria and Israel, saying that Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara had made it clear he does not hate Israel and holds no religious hostility toward it, and wants secure borders and peace.
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“I know Israel wants the same thing. We’ll probably see backdoor dialogue begin on simpler issues like border security. Over time, that will evolve into a broader de-escalation dialogue” Barak said.
He added that Turkey could play a key role in reshaping ties between Israel and the wider Islamic world, saying Tel Aviv needs to redefine itself and that there are real chances for dialogue and de-escalation, even with Syria and Lebanon.
Barak also revealed that he expects a ceasefire to be reached soon in Gaza, which he believes could pave the way for expanding the Abraham Accords and launching a new regional dialogue led by Turkey.
Last Thursday, Barak said that the US aims to protect the Syrian government from Iranian-backed groups and continue counter-terrorism operations.
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Speaking to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hadath TV, he said Washington is committed to giving President Ahmad Al-Shara’s government the chance to prove itself, praising Shara’s focus and deep knowledge of history.
Barak emphasized that Syria should be allowed to recover through lifting sanctions and that America’s goal in Syria remains fighting terrorism and defeating ISIS.
He clarified that the US did not overthrow Bashar al-Assad’s regime but that it was the Syrian people who brought it down.
