• The US flag was raised in Damascus for the first time since 2012.
• Envoy Thomas Barrack emphasizes the possibility of peace between Syria and Israel.
• The US has eased sanctions against Syria, indicating a shift in diplomatic relations.

The US envoy for Syria, Thomas Barrack, raised the American flag over the ambassador's residence in Damascus for the first time since the embassy closed in 2012 due to the Syrian civil war. This action reflects a significant thawing of relations between the US and Syria after years of isolation, particularly following a recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Syria's new President Ahmed al-Sharaa in mid-May, where sanctions on Syria were also eased, according to Reuters and TRT Global.

During his visit, Barrack expressed optimism about achieving peace between Syria and Israel, stating, "Syria and Israel is a solvable problem. But it starts with a dialogue." He called for discussions surrounding a non-aggression agreement and borders. Barrack also indicated that Syria would no longer be labeled a state sponsor of terrorism, citing the end of the Assad regime as a turning point, according to Dawn and Al Jazeera.

Furthermore, the US decision to lift certain sanctions against Syria marks a pivotal moment for the newly formed government, offering an opportunity for economic recovery after 14 years of war. Barrack stated that the US aims to support the new leadership without imposing conditions, emphasizing the importance of a chance for the new government to stabilize and develop, as noted by Reuters, Dawn, and Al Jazeera.

This diplomatic shift has implications for the broader Middle Eastern political landscape, potentially fostering more significant interactions between Syria, the US, and Israel. The newly appointed interim President al-Sharaa, previously associated with al-Qaeda, has shown intent to reorient Syria's foreign policy and ties with the West, which analysts suggest will bring substantial benefits to the nation, according to Al Jazeera and Dawn.