The U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, has urged regional blocs to manage their internal affairs without external interference.
Barrack made the call while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye.
Referring to ongoing diplomatic engagements in global conflicts, including Syria-Israel talks, he noted that Donald Trump “only applies diplomatic influence when necessary.
“What you know and what you’ve seen is my boss exerts his influence where he feels that it’s necessary.
“For these, multilateral organisations … regions handling their own problems first is the ultimate result of our America First programmes.
“It’s not America first and the world gets badly. It’s America first, and everybody should look at their own countries the same,” Barrack said.
He added that this approach aligned with a broader vision of “diplomatic equality” and “peace through power and prosperity.”
Tom Barrack said his remarks align with those of Ahmed al-Sharaa, who noted that Syria–Israel talks are progressing but remain difficult due to Israel’s insistence on maintaining a presence on Syrian territory.
Barrack expressed confidence in the U.S. negotiating team, describing it as “the best” and affirming Washington’s goal of achieving the best global outcome. He pointed to cautious optimism in Syria, saying people are beginning to feel tangible change beyond hope.
He described Syria as part of a broader geopolitical “experiment” involving major powers such as the U.S., Russia and China, aimed at shaping a new model for stability in the Middle East.
Highlighting a global “realignment,” Barrack stressed that regions must increasingly take responsibility for their own affairs, with external intervention only when necessary. He added that Syria presents a rare opportunity for alignment among diverse communities and regional actors, expressing optimism that ongoing efforts will yield results.
NAN