US envoy backs Syria's government amid tensions with Israel

In recent developments in Syria, Tom Barrack, the US ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria, emphasized Washington's unwavering support for Syria's new government amid escalating sectarian violence. This violence erupted in the southern province of Sweida, where clashes broke out between Druze militias and local Sunni Muslim Bedouin tribes. Barrack's comments came during a visit to Beirut, where he described the conflict as intolerable, underlining that the current Syrian government has been doing its best to manage the complex situation despite being resource-strapped. Over the past week, the fighting in Sweida resulted in hundreds of deaths and forced Syrian government forces to intervene ostensibly to restore order. However, their actions reportedly favored the Bedouin tribes before a ceasefire agreement was announced, allowing civilians from both sides to evacuate the conflict zones. Israel's military intervention, supporting the Druze community, has further complicated the political landscape, as Barrack noted that this intervention created confusion at a critical time. In addressing Israel's actions, Barrack pointed out that while the United States did not participate in Israel's decisions about military strikes, the implications of such actions are significant. He suggested that Israel might prefer a fragmented Syrian state as opposed to a united one under strong central authority, viewing strong nation-states as a potential threat. Barrack also remarked that both Syrian and Israeli forces had been attempting discussions regarding security until violence intensified, causing diplomatic efforts to shift. While this ceasefire is limited to the recent conflict, discussions are ongoing about merging US-backed Kurdish forces with Syria's new national army. Barrack expressed optimism regarding potential breakthroughs in these negotiations despite the ongoing violence. He also recommended that Syria and Turkey may forge a defense pact, with the US remaining impartial. Overall, his visit highlights the delicate balance of US interests in the region and the multifaceted challenges facing Syria’s government in restoring stability amidst escalating sectarian strife.