Beirut: U.S. envoy to Syria Tom Barrack emphasized the critical need to lift sanctions on Syria, suggesting that Lebanon has a significant opportunity to disarm Hezbollah and partake in the regional peace process.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Barrack shared his insights on his X platform, under the post titled ‘Syria and Lebanon Are the Next Pieces for Levant Peace,’ marking October 13, 2025, as a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Barrack noted that leaders who convened in Sharm el-Sheikh not only celebrated the release of hostages and a ceasefire but also endorsed President Donald J. Trump’s comprehensive twenty-point vision aimed at renewal, reconstruction, and prosperity in the region. He described a shift from an era of fear and stagnation to one of purpose and optimism, emphasizing the unification of Arab, Muslim, and Western nations to replace paralysis with progress.
Barrack called on the U.S. House of Representatives to repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, stating it had achieved its moral purpose against the previous Assad regime but now hinders Syria’s rebuilding efforts. He commended President Trump for lifting most Syrian sanctions, framing it as a strategic move to enable investments in rebuilding essential infrastructure.
He highlighted the transformation in Syria since the inauguration of a new government on December 8, 2024, noting renewed diplomatic relations with countries like Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Europe, along with border discussions with Israel. Barrack stressed that the Caesar Act has fulfilled its purpose and that it’s time to give Syria a chance to rebuild.
Barrack identified the disarmament of Hezbollah as a crucial step toward stabilizing Israel’s northern frontier, presenting it as both Israel’s security necessity and Lebanon’s opportunity for renewal. He criticized Lebanon’s political paralysis and warned against potential unilateral Israeli action if hesitation persists.
He referenced Washington’s ‘One More Try’ plan, which offers a structured framework for phased disarmament and economic incentives, supervised by the U.S., France, and the UN. Barrack cautioned that Lebanon’s refusal to adopt this plan could exacerbate sectarian divisions and delay crucial elections.
Barrack linked the stabilization efforts in Syria and Lebanon’s decision-making to Trump’s 20-Point Plan and the ongoing expansion of the Abraham Accords, noting Iran’s weakened state and Saudi Arabia’s potential formal accession. He urged Lebanon to align with the anti-terrorist sentiment prevailing in the region.
Concluding his statement, Barrack announced that President Trump’s newly appointed Ambassador to Lebanon, Michel Issa, is set to arrive in Beirut next month to aid Lebanon in navigating these complex issues.