Tom Barrack: 'They used to call us Turks'

U.S. Ambassador to Ankara Tom Barrack hosted his first reception at the embassy residence in Ankara following the start of his tenure in May 2025. The reception, held on the occasion of U.S. Independence Day, was attended by Minister of Treasury and Finance Mehmet Şimşek, President of the Constitutional Court Kadir Özkaya, U.S. Representative Darrell Issa, representatives of diplomatic missions, and numerous guests.

Speaking at the program, which began with the playing of the Turkish and U.S. national anthems, Barrack made assessments regarding both the historical process and his own family background. It was also noted that the representation of European ambassadors at the event was limited.

I come from a place in Lebanon called Zahle. When my grandparents came to America in 1900, they carried passports that said 'Turk' under nationality. That is how we were addressed everywhere. My grandfather was known by the nickname 'Turk,' and this continued for another 50 years.

In his speech, Barrack referred to the Ottoman past, citing the era when Thomas Jefferson signed the Declaration of Independence. Touching upon his own roots, Barrack expressed his pleasure in hosting such an event in Ankara due to this historical connection.

Addressing regional developments, Barrack stated that the world is in a state of "chaos" and emphasized Turkey's ability to adapt and progress in a challenging geography. Commemorating the role of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in the founding process of the Republic, Barrack said that Turkey was "reborn" a relatively short time ago.

At the end of his speech, drawing attention to the relations between Turkey and the U.S., Barrack stated, "A clarity will emerge from within the chaos." Barrack expressed that the unity between Turkey, the U.S., and the countries of the region could pave the way for a new beginning.