On Sunday, US envoy to Syria Tom Barak—who also serves as the US ambassador to Turkey—suggested that dialogue between Syria and Israel could take place "behind closed doors." In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Barak stated, "We will likely see behind-the-scenes talks starting with simpler issues like border security, evolving over time into broader discussions to end the conflict. The key question will be: How can we ensure stability along the border?"

When asked whether he anticipated a Syrian-Israeli peace agreement, Barak replied, "Yes, my hope leans in that direction—they must reach a deal at some point." He also expressed belief that a similar agreement could be reached with Lebanon, noting "Lebanon is equally suited for this model."

Barak emphasized that Syrian President Ahmed Al-Shar'a seeks border peace, adding, "The transformation in Syria was necessary to give the country a chance."

On Northeast Syria and the SDF
Regarding northeast Syria and the US stance toward the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Barak clarified that "the Syrian government will remain the sole party the US engages with in Syria." However, he acknowledged the SDF (led by the Kurdish YPG) as a partner in the fight against ISIS alongside US troops. Still, he stressed that "the SDF must fully integrate—politically and militarily—into a new Syria, just as other Syrian factions seek representation, though this will take time."

US-Turkey Relations and F-35 Dispute
Barak highlighted the strong personal rapport between Presidents Erdogan and Trump, rooted in "mutual trust, alignment, and understanding." He underscored the importance of deepening US-Turkish strategic cooperation, particularly militarily, citing Turkey’s F-16 and F-35 programs as "core components of its NATO ally status."

On the protracted F-35 issue, he expressed optimism: "The US Congress is open to reconsidering the matter (...) and will support any logical solution. I believe we have a chance to resolve this by year’s end."

Both nations, he added, are committed to being "proactive partners"—not just militarily—praising Turkey’s defense industry, notably the successful Bayraktar TB2 drone.