Striking message from Tom Barrack for Syria: “One nation, one people, one Syria”

US Ambassador to Ankara and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack emphasized unity in his statements regarding Syria, using the phrase, “One nation, one people, one army, one Syria.” Barrack also addressed US Secretary of State Rubio’s remarks on Iraqi Kurds and the debates surrounding federalism in the region.

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Striking message from Tom Barrack for Syria: “One nation, one people, one Syria”

US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack made statements to the Erbil-based Rudaw television network in Northern Iraq. During the interview, Barrack’s messages of unity regarding Syria and his assessments of the status of Kurds in Iraq stood out.

Referring to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statement on Iraqi Kurds, Barrack said, “Rubio’s remarks are not a call for an independent Kurdistan. What is being underlined here is respect for Kurdish identity, language, and education.”

Stating that Rubio’s approach points to the necessity of respecting the unique culture of the Kurds, Barrack noted that these words were not aimed at establishing an independent state, but rather at recognizing existing identity rights.

STRIKING ASSESSMENT ON FEDERALISM

Touching upon the functioning of federalism in Iraq and Syria, Barrack said, “We have seen that federalism does not work in a sustainable way in either Iraq or Syria. It is not possible to create different independent states within a single state.” These statements were interpreted as a warning against fragmented governance and demands for autonomy in the region.

AMBASSADOR’S EMPHASIS ON UNITY

Continuing his remarks, Barrack called for unity in Syria with a phrase similar to the slogan frequently used by President Erdoğan, “One nation, one homeland, one state, one flag,” stating: “It is important that we all meet at the same point. There must be one nation, one people, one army, one Syria.” He defined this message as the necessity for different groups in Syria to reach a consensus.

CRITICISM OF SDF: “THEY ARE MOVING SLOWLY IN THE PROCESS”

Barrack also touched upon the political dynamics in Syria. He stated that the Damascus administration, where HTS leader Jolani serves as interim President, is seeking harmony with the Syrian Democratic Forces (YPG/PKK). Barrack said, “The Syrian government has shown great flexibility and determination at this point. However, I think the SDF (PKK/YPG) is not moving fast enough regarding reconciliation, negotiation, and inclusion in the process. My advice is for them to accelerate this process. Dialogue with Damascus is the only way out. That is my message.”

PAST REMARKS HAD ALSO CAUSED CONTROVERSY

Tom Barrack’s recent statement, “The millet system in the Ottoman Empire allowed different groups to maintain their existence alongside the central administration,” had also caused reactions in the public sphere. Barrack’s statements, which particularly emphasize regional peoples and identity, continue to resonate widely.

News Source: 12punto