Syrian president meets US envoy Barrack in Damascus

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa received US envoy Tom Barrack at the People’s Palace in Damascus on Saturday for discussions on regional developments and bilateral economic cooperation, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). SANA reported that the two sides addressed developments in Syria and the wider region, alongside efforts to strengthen economic ties between Damascus and Washington.

Economic cooperation

The state news agency said the leaders explored ways to enhance economic cooperation but did not elaborate on specific agreements or timelines for potential joint projects. Barrack’s presence in the Syrian capital marks a continued US diplomatic engagement with the country amid shifting regional dynamics.

Regional tensions

The meeting occurs amid stalled US-Iran negotiations mediated by Pakistan, with the fragile truce in effect since April 8 facing potential collapse without a comprehensive settlement to end the war that began on February 28. President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire indefinitely while maintaining a naval blockade on vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that has kept global energy markets volatile.

Hostilities erupted on February 28 when the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks by Tehran against Israeli and Gulf targets and the subsequent closure of the strategic waterway. Talks resumed earlier this month in Islamabad but failed to produce a lasting agreement, leaving the region on edge as the conflict continues into its third month.