U.S. envoy says SDF is valued partner in the fight against ISIS
Damascus, Syria (North Press) – U.S. Special Envoy to Syria, Thomas Barrack, affirmed on Thursday that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) remain a crucial partner for the United States, praising their role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS) and their potential for aligning with the fact that Syria is one country and has one army.
“SDF, who has been a valued partner for America in the fight against ISIS, well-respected, bright, articulate, has to come to the conclusion that there’s one country, there’s one nation, there’s one people, and there’s one army,” Barrack said during an exclusive interview with North Press.
Barak emphasized the importance of unity in Syria, stating,
“SDF has to align with the fact that there’s one country, one nation, one people, and one military faster. So, conversations are happening. They have to happen quicker.”
He acknowledged the complexity and time required for such political processes, noting, “Now, that’s easy to say. Sometimes it’s difficult to get there. So, things take time.”
Barrack also highlighted the broader regional implications, particularly the peace process in Turkey, saying, “It affects what’s happening here. Because we see the entire region changing.”
“It’s a step that should have happened long ago,” he noted. “Anytime we can substitute peace for chaos, America is all for it. So I’m proud of all sides, Turkey, PKK, Ocalan.”
Expressing optimism, Barak continued, “I hope it’s either the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end. It affects what’s happening here. Because we see the entire region changing.”