Confession-like statement from US representative Tom Barrack: 'Strong nation-states are a threat'

The US Special Envoy for Syria and Ambassador to Ankara, Tom Barrack, made statements to the Associated Press (AP) regarding Israel's recent attacks on Syria. Barrack noted that the timing of the attack was wrong and said that Washington was neither consulted on this operation nor involved in the process.

Stating that "actions that Israel views as self-defense are not our responsibility," Barrack pointed out that a complex and new process has begun in the region.

"A STRONG SYRIA IS NOT ISRAEL'S PREFERENCE"

Evaluating Israel's goals in the region, Barrack used the following expressions:

"Israel favors a fragmented, weak, and divided structure over a centralized and strong Syrian state. This stance is part of Israel's security priorities in the region."

"Strong nation-states are a threat. Especially strong structures in the Arab world are perceived as a danger by Israel. Israel's regional strategy is to be surrounded by more scattered structures."

"MINORITIES ACTING TOGETHER IS A STRONGER MODEL"

Barrack argued that a more horizontal structure, where minority groups act together, could be more functional against strong state structures.

Barrack was also asked about allegations that Turkey offered defense support to Syria. The US diplomat did not take a clear stance on this issue: "The US does not have any position regarding the possibility of a defense agreement between Turkey and Syria."

Emphasizing that Washington has no intention of intervening in the developments in the region, Barrack implied that the US is pursuing a more reserved policy with the words, "It is not the US's job or interest to tell the countries around it what to do."