British News Agency

U.S. Ambassador to Ankara Tom Barrack commented on the renewed escalation of tensions in Suwayda.

Barrack said that about a year ago, together with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, he signed a trilateral roadmap for peace in Suwayda. Barrack said the roadmap aims to reintegrate the Druze community into Syria with its rights and responsibilities as citizens.

Barrack argued that the lack of governance in Suwayda had created conditions for gangs to emerge, adding that cooperation among the Druze, Arab tribes and neighboring countries bordering Suwayda should continue on the basis of tolerance and understanding.

Barrack said the Syrian government had taken steps to investigate serious crimes reportedly committed by its forces last July and to bring those responsible to justice, stressing that this process should continue.

Barrack emphasized the need for accountability, security and continued dialogue to enable displaced people to return and devastated areas to be rebuilt. He called on the parties to show “restraint in their actions and sincere communication.”