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United States Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack said Thursday that a meeting between Syrian and Israeli representatives in Paris led to “dialogue and de-escalation” following days of violence in southern Syria.
“I met this evening with the Syrians and Israelis in Paris. Our goal was dialogue and de-escalation, and we accomplished precisely that,” Barrack said in a statement on X. “All parties reiterated their commitment to continuing these efforts.”"
There was no immediate comment from either the Syrian or Israeli governments. However, reports indicated that Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani were expected to attend the Paris talks.
State Department Deputy Spokesman Tommy Pigott, speaking at a daily press briefing, said Barrack and Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been in contact with both sides for several days, and that diplomatic efforts were ongoing.
“Syria is at a critical juncture, and we are looking to the Syrian government to lead on these steps,” Pigott said.
The meeting took place amid heightened tensions between Syria and Israel. On July 13, clashes erupted between Bedouin Arab tribes and armed Druze groups in the southern province of Sweida. The violence escalated, prompting Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian military positions and infrastructure, including in Damascus.
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Israel said its attacks were intended to protect Druze communities. However, most Druze leaders in Syria publicly rejected foreign interference and reaffirmed their support for a unified Syrian state. A ceasefire was announced Saturday.
Syria has been undergoing a political transition since the ouster of regime leader Bashar al-Assad on Dec. 8, 2024, with the new government working to restore nationwide order.
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