US envoy calls for Syrian unity during Damascus visit
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – US envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack visited on Saturday Damascus on behalf of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where he met with Syria’s transitional president Ahmad al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, and their team to discuss recent developments in Aleppo and the course of Syria’s historic transitional phase.
Barrack affirmed that President Trump views this moment as “a pivotal opportunity to build a new Syria, a unified state where all sects are treated with respect and dignity.” He added that Washington agreed to lift sanctions “to give Syria a chance to move forward.”
The United States welcomed Syria’s transitional phase, expressing support for the government’s efforts to achieve stability, while reiterating its commitment to defeating ISIS and strengthening security.
The envoy voiced concern over the latest developments in Aleppo, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint, cease hostilities immediately, and return to dialogue in line with the March 10 and April 1, 2025 agreements between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The US State Department team accompanying Barrack confirmed readiness to facilitate constructive dialogue aimed at advancing an inclusive and responsible integration process that respects Syria’s unity. They emphasized that the ultimate goal is a sovereign and unified Syrian state where all citizens live in peace, justice, and equality.
Barrack also called on Syria’s neighbors and the international community to support this vision and provide the necessary cooperation and assistance to achieve it.