In a revealing interview with The National, Tom Barrack, the US Special Envoy to Syria and Ambassador to Turkey, offered a candid assessment of the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape and US foreign policy. Barrack, who has Lebanese heritage and has served as President Donald Trump’s envoy since May, described regional peace as ‘an illusion’ and criticized Israel’s aggressive actions, including its strikes on Syria, Lebanon, and Tunisia. He also addressed the recent Israeli attack on Qatar, calling it ‘not good’ and revealing that groups like Hamas and the Taliban are in Doha at America’s request. Barrack emphasized that the US administration is stepping back from direct intervention, focusing instead on counterterrorism cooperation while maintaining a special relationship with Israel, which receives $4-5 billion in annual subsidies. He dismissed the idea of a Palestinian state, arguing that the global community lacks the commitment to enforce it. Barrack also highlighted the challenges of disarming Hezbollah in Lebanon, noting the group’s financial and military strength, funded by Iran. He expressed concern over the Gaza conflict, calling it ‘unsettling’ and questioning why neighboring Arab countries won’t take in Palestinians. Barrack concluded by expressing distrust in all regional actors, including Israel, and hinted at the possibility of further US or Israeli action against Iran to stabilize the region.