Bahrain welcomes US decision to remove Syria from terrorism list

The United States remains engaged in talks with Israel, Turkey, and Syria following recent regional tensions. State Department spokesperson emphasized the importance of restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation. President Trump outlined his vision for a prosperous Middle East and stable Syria, living in peace with its neighbors.

US President Donald Trump's leadership has facilitated productive discussions centered on respecting Syria's sovereignty and stability, supporting Israel's right to self-defense against security threats, and promoting prosperity for both nations. The US insists that restraint and dialogue are the best approaches to resolve the situation.

Direct communications are ongoing between Israel and Syria, focusing on a meeting between Mossad chief Roman Gofman and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shibani. The talks took place in Jordan as part of efforts to reduce tensions and rekindle security dialogue between Israel and Syria following a recent Israeli strike on an Abu al Duhur base in Syria.

The dispute escalated after Tom Barrack, Trump's envoy to Syria and US ambassador to Turkey, contested Israel's assessment that led to the strike. Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed that the attack relied on clear intelligence information shared with the Americans. Israeli forces conducted additional strikes in southern Syria over the weekend, targeting an operative preparing to launch attacks against IDF forces.

Damascus denounced the latest strike, alleging it was a violation of Syrian sovereignty. The Abu al Duhur dispute carries implications for Syria's future security landscape. Turkey is a key supporter of the Syrian government, helping to establish state institutions and bolster the Syrian military. In Israel, there are apprehensions that an expanded Turkish military presence, including air defense systems or forces at Syrian bases, could eventually impede the Israeli Air Force's operational freedom.

The US position on the contentious issue is significant due to its relationships with all parties involved. While the US supports Israel's right to self-defense, it also aims to stabilize Syria, bolster the new government in Damascus, and avert a confrontation between Israel and Turkey, its NATO ally and a significant player in Syria.

In response to the news, the State Department spokesperson reiterated the importance of Israel's right to defend itself against security threats and Syria's sovereignty and stability, as the American call for restraint and dialogue follows a series of strikes, mutual accusations, and public disagreements between Jerusalem and Barrack.

The US continues to hold discussions with Israel, Syria, and Turkey to avert further escalation, maintain dialogue between Jerusalem and Damascus, and prevent Israeli-Turkish tensions in Syria from escalating into a broader conflict.