The USA plans to reopen its embassy in Syria after a 14-year hiatus
The USA is considering reopening its embassy in Syria, which has been closed since 2012 due to the civil war, as part of a phased approach by the State Department.
The United States has announced a potential plan to reopen its embassy in Syria, which has been closed since 2012 due to the ongoing civil war in the country. This information was revealed in a report sent to congressional committees earlier this month, obtained by The Associated Press. Lawmakers were informed of the State Department's intention to implement a phased approach to possibly resume embassy operations in Syria, although specific details have not been disclosed by the Trump administration.
The consideration of reopening the embassy comes amidst significant geopolitical changes, notably following the 2024 overthrow of long-time Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels. This development has renewed discussions within the U.S. government regarding its diplomatic presence in Syria and reflects a shift in policy that may have implications for the United States' role in Middle Eastern affairs. The reopening of the embassy is reportedly considered a priority by Tom Barrack, the Trump administration's ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria.
However, the plans for the embassy's reopening remain classified, and the State Department has refrained from providing additional comments beyond confirming the Congressional report's existence. As the situation in Syria evolves, the implications of U.S. diplomatic engagement will be closely monitored, particularly as it relates to ongoing conflicts and the broader landscape of international relations in the region.