Who is Tom Barak? Lebanese-born US envoy to Syria

Who is Tom Barrack

The U.S. ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrackon Friday, announced that he would be taking over as U.S. Special Envoy to SyriaU.S. Special Envoy for Syria.

In a remarkable move that reflects a shift in the approach of the administration of US President Donald Trump towards the Syrian file.

especially with regard to the sanctions policy.

Lifting sanctions on Syria: A gateway to fighting ISIS and restoring stability

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Barak said:

“Lifting sanctions on Syria will maintain our primary goal of Defeat ISIS once and for alland will give the Syrian people a chance to for a better future.”

The statement comes at a time when the region is witnessing rapid political developments.

indicating Washington’s repositioning toward Damascus, perhaps opening the door to negotiations through unconventional frameworks.

Who is Tom Barak?

Tom Barrack is one of America’s most prominent real estate entrepreneurs.

and he Founder and Chairman of Colony Capital (currently known as Digital Bridge).

which is considered to be the world’s largest privately held real estate investment companywith a presence in more than 19 countries.

His career

• Barak began his career as a financial lawyer working on financing large-scale projects for companies such as AramcoandBechtelandFleur in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia.
• He later held leadership positions, including CEO of Dunn International and Senior Vice President at E.F. Hutton on Wall Street.
• He was also a director at the Robert M. Bass Group, a major investment entity in Texas.

Public service and government experience

In a year 1982Appointed by the late U.S. President Ronald Reagan Deputy Under Secretary of the Interior.

And in 2016Chosen by the president. Trump For the presidency The organizing committee for his presidential inaugurationThe organization committee for the presidential inauguration

This underscores the trust he enjoys within Washington’s political circles.

of Lebanese descent !!! Who is Tom Barrack?

Interestingly, Tom Barrack is grandson of Lebanese Catholic immigrantsHe was born in Los AngelesIn the meantime.

He has an Arabic cultural background that enables him to communicate effectively with Middle Eastern issues.

• He has Bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Californiaand a J.D. from University of San Diego.
• Speaks French, Spanish, and some Arabic.

Awards and honors

Barak has received French Legion of Honor awarded to him by former President Nicolas SarkozyNicolas Sarkozy.

He also received Honorary Doctor of Laws from Pepperdine University.

Is Barak paving the way for a shift in the U.S. position on Damascus?

The appointment of Tom Barrack as special envoy to Syria appears to be more than a protocol detail.

but Signaling a new U.S. approach may rely on economic diplomacy and the expertise of businessmen to resolve complex crises, especially as Washington seeks to minimize the influence of Iran and Hezbollah in the region through gradual compromises.

It is noteworthy that Barak is considered close to President Trump and owns extensive international networkwhich may qualify him to play a pivotal role in re-establishing US-Syrian communication, especially if this is done within the framework of A broader regional deal that includes the Gulf states and Israel.

Lebanon Today