Ex-Trump Envoy Urges US to Intervene in Israeli Operations in Syria

Former US envoy Tom Barrack warned that an Israeli strike in Syria on August 18, targeting the Abu al-Duhur airbase, nearly caused a dangerous escalation with Turkey. Barrack stated that Israel did not coordinate the strike with Ankara beforehand, and neither was the US informed. He explained that Turkey could have quickly scrambled its jets in response, leading to an unforeseen confrontation. "Israel is too smart to start a real conflict with Turkey," Barrack commented, adding that he believes neither country desires such a conflict. The strike reportedly damaged the airbase's runway and infrastructure, though no casualties were reported. Israel cited the need to prevent Turkish military entrenchment at the base as its reason for the operation, a claim denied by Turkey's Ministry of Defense, which stated no Turkish military delegation was present at the base during the strike.

Barrack urged an end to Israeli operations in Syria, suggesting it might be time for the United States to intervene. He did not specify what measures Washington might take. The former envoy also praised Syrian President Ahmed al-Shar'a for his efforts in managing a transitional period and integrating Kurdish-affiliated forces into state institutions, emphasizing the need for economic prospects alongside political agreements to foster cooperation with former adversaries.

Turning to the situation in Yemen, Barrack expressed doubt about the effectiveness of military force in resolving the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis. He noted Saudi Arabia's difficult position and questioned the practical implications of defense alliances, wondering if Turkey would deploy ground troops or supply drones. While US President Donald Trump supports Saudi Arabia and will provide logistical aid, Barrack deemed further US involvement in ground operations "unpromising."

Regarding Iran, Barrack identified mutual distrust between the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the US as a major obstacle to any agreement. He was uncertain if going to war with Iran would be a mistake but suggested that attempts to interfere in other countries' affairs or change regimes have historically proven erroneous. Barrack stressed that US policy does not entail abandoning the Middle East but rather adjusting its approach and redistributing responsibilities while maintaining American presence and dialogue.