Ankara, June 30, 2025 – The Europe Today: U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Representative for Syria, Tom Barrack, has underscored Türkiye’s pivotal role in the evolving dynamics of the Middle East, describing the country as “key” to building a new regional order following the recent escalation between Israel and Iran.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Ambassador Barrack stated, “Israel is in the process of being redefined. What just happened between Israel and Iran is an opportunity for all of us to say, ‘Time out. Let’s create a new road.’ Türkiye is key in that new road.”
Reflecting on his personal ties to Türkiye, Barrack recalled that his grandfather immigrated to the United States in 1900 with an Ottoman passport and only 13 liras. “Returning to the land of my heritage as a senior diplomat for President Trump is a profound privilege,” he remarked.
Bilateral Ties and Strategic Cooperation
Commenting on U.S.–Türkiye relations, Barrack praised the strong rapport between President Donald Trump and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, as well as between Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He described their personal relationships as critical to navigating a transformative moment in regional history.
“We started with an affinity and understanding between the two presidents and their foreign ministers,” he noted. “This level of trust is essential at a time when the Middle East and Near East are undergoing historic changes.”
He emphasized Türkiye’s status as a major NATO ally, adding that Ankara deserves greater recognition for its strategic relevance. “Türkiye has never fully received the elevation it deserves as a major regional player,” he said.
F-35, F-16 and Defence Industry Cooperation
Touching on long-standing defence matters, Barrack highlighted Türkiye’s significant contributions to NATO and the production of F-35 components. He noted that Türkiye has paid for F-16s and their modernization and said there is now momentum on both sides to “start fresh” and move beyond past disputes, including those related to the S-400 missile system.
Barrack added, “By the end of the year, we could see a resolution. President Trump and President Erdoğan are aligned in wanting to move forward. Congress is also open to an intelligent conclusion.”
He praised Türkiye’s achievements in defence technology, particularly Baykar’s globally acclaimed TB2 and Bayraktar drones, and described Turkish Airlines as one of the world’s top carriers.
Türkiye’s Role in Regional Peacebuilding
Ambassador Barrack lauded Türkiye’s leadership in the Syria file and its contribution to regional stability. He expressed hope for a breakthrough between Syria and Israel, stating: “President [Ahmed] al Sharaa of Syria has expressed a desire for peaceful relations, and I believe Israel wants the same. We are likely to see back-channel dialogues that could stabilize borders.”
He further noted the potential for similar agreements involving Lebanon and emphasized that all regional actors should aim for peaceful coexistence. “Why can’t we live peacefully? I think Syria may be the quickest route to proving that this is possible,” he said.
Regarding U.S. policy in northeastern Syria and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Barrack affirmed that the United States recognizes only the sovereign Syrian state and expects all factions, including the SDF and PKK/YPG elements, to be integrated into a unified national framework.
Path Toward a New Middle East Dialogue
Barrack emphasized that the Middle East is ready for a new era of dialogue and cooperation. Referring to earlier Abraham Accords agreements, he said more countries could join despite current challenges in Gaza.
“We are on the verge of a ceasefire in Gaza. There is a strong team working on it. The region is weary of prolonged conflict, and leaders on both sides are ready for change,” Barrack remarked.
He also expressed optimism about the potential for renewed Türkiye–Israel relations, calling for a focus on mutual understanding rather than territorial disputes. “It’s not about religion—it’s about a misunderstanding of territorial desires,” he said.
In closing, Barrack pointed to Izmir as a symbol of coexistence, highlighting its historical blend of Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities. “Izmir exemplifies what the Middle East can become—diverse, harmonious, and united.”
He concluded by reiterating Türkiye’s central role: “Türkiye can be the focal point of this transformation. What is happening in Syria is, in large part, thanks to Türkiye’s leadership.”
