Tom Barrack: Syrian Government must be held accountable

Speaking on Monday, U. S. envoy to Syria and Lebanon, Tom Barrack, emphasized the need to hold Syria's transitional government responsible in light of the violence in Sweida. He also noted that Washington is working to address the failure of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

In a press conference held in Beirut, Barrack said, "We are engaging with developments in Sweida with concern, pain, sympathy, and support," adding, "The Syrian government must be held accountable."

He further stated that Washington is committed "to ensuring coordination between Syria and its neighboring countries, whether Israel or others."

Regarding the situation in Lebanon, Barrack said the U.S. is working to help the Lebanese people achieve peace, but the solution depends on the Lebanese government. He added that the United States considers Hezbollah a terrorist organization and will not engage in dialogue with it.

He also clarified that Washington does not intend to impose sanctions on Lebanon, affirming that Lebanon is an integral part of regional stability.

On the continued Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon, Barrack said, "We are trying to address the reasons behind the failure of the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel," and added, "The United States has no right to try to force Israel to do anything... America can only exert influence."

A-H 

ANHA