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Ambassador Tom Barrack faces criticism for comments on Golan Heights that appear to contradict official policy of the administration

Ambassador Tom Barrack, the U.S. special envoy to Syria and ambassador to Turkey, faced significant criticism this week for describing the Golan Heights as occupied Syrian land. This description appeared to conflict with the official policy of the administration, as President Trump recognized Israeli sovereignty over the territory in 2019. While Barrack noted that the territory remains occupied against international order, he clarified that his remarks were a description of historical status rather than a formal endorsement of the United Nations' position. However, Republican Senator Rick Scott and far-right commentator Laura Loomer criticized the envoy for failing to research the president's clear stance. Barrack also addressed recent Israeli strikes on a Syrian airbase, suggesting they were an unnecessary escalation that risked a direct confrontation with Turkey. He argued that Turkey is not seeking a military confrontation with Israel and that the strikes may have been a political gambit. Despite the public dispute, the administration has not yet reversed the 2019 recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

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