The recent escalation between Iran and Israel could open a "new path" in the Middle East, US special envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack said on Sunday, calling for seizing the opportunity to build a different future.
Barak told Türkiye's state-run Anadolu Agency: "What just happened between Israel and Iran is an opportunity for all of us to say: 'Stop. Let's build a new road'," Barrack said, noting that Ankara is playing a pivotal role in this context.
"Syria and Lebanon need to reach peace agreements with Israel," the ambassador said, adding: "President Ahmed al-Sharaa has indicated that he does not hate Israel and that he wants peace on this border. I think this will also happen with Lebanon. An agreement with Israel is essential."
'Syria does not want war with Israel'
In a related context, US President Donald Trump said in an interview with Fox News: "I don't know if Syria will sign a normalisation agreement with Israel, but I have lifted sanctions on Syria, and we may lift sanctions on Iran if they show goodwill."
Barrack explained that the current Syrian administration is holding behind the scenes talks with Israel on all issues, stressing that it does not seek military confrontations.
He added that the government of Syria's transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, does not want war with Israel, and called for giving the new Syrian administration a chance.
In a previous post on social media, Barrack had emphasised that the birth of a new Syria begins with truth, accountability and cooperation with the region, noting that the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime opened the door to peace and that the lifting of sanctions will enable the Syrian people to explore the path towards prosperity and security.
