U.S. Envoy Backs Syria’s Interim President to Counter Iran and ISIS
U.S. Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrak, has emphasized the importance of supporting interim Syrian President Ahmad al-Shar’a to curb Iran’s influence, prevent ISIS’s resurgence, and stabilize the war-torn nation.
Barrak highlighted that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and remnants of ISIS share destabilizing elements, posing a significant challenge to regional stability. Meanwhile, Israel Hayom reported that senior Israeli security officials have received “serious threats” of potential terrorist attacks from Iranian-backed groups in southern Syria. Israel is now working to prevent the formation of a new hostile front in the region.
In a rare diplomatic development, talks between Tel Aviv and Damascus are reportedly underway to discuss the demilitarization of southern Syria. Israeli officials denied claims that Israeli forces had crossed into Syrian territory, emphasizing that Tel Aviv has “no intention” of interfering in Syria’s internal affairs. They described the tone of the talks as “positive” and noted that further meetings are expected soon.
Adding to the diplomatic momentum, Israel’s “KAN” news channel reported that Riyadh has sent messages urging Israel not to undermine al-Shar’a’s government, arguing that his stability could help push Tehran out of Syria. A senior Saudi royal source told KAN that al-Shar’a should be given the opportunity to lead Syria, emphasizing that this approach would reduce Iran’s influence and support long-term regional peace efforts.
These developments highlight a rare convergence of interests between Washington, Riyadh, and Tel Aviv, all of whom see al-Shar’a’s leadership as a counterweight to Iran and a safeguard against renewed instability in Syria.
