Barrack says 'Bilad Al Sham' remarks not a 'threat to Lebanon'

U.S. envoy Tom Barrack has clarified his remarks about the possibility that Lebanon might be swallowed by Syria, after they sparked outrage in Lebanon.

“My comments yesterday praised Syria’s impressive strides, not a threat to Lebanon. I observed the reality that Syria is moving at light speed to seize the historic opportunity presented by

@POTUS’s (U.S. President Donald Trump’s) lifting of sanctions: investment from Türkiye and the Gulf, diplomatic outreach to neighboring countries, and a clear vision for the future,” Barrack said in a post on X.

“I can assure that Syria’s leaders only want co-existence and mutual prosperity with Lebanon, and the United States is committed to supporting that relationship between two equal and sovereign neighbors enjoying peace and prosperity,” Barrack added.

He had warned in an interview with the UAE’s The National newspaper that Lebanon risks being swallowed by regional powers unless it acts to address Hezbollah’s arms and implement reforms.

“You have Israel on one side, you have Iran on the other, and now you have Syria manifesting itself so quickly that if Lebanon doesn’t move, it’s going to be Bilad Al Sham again,” he said, using the historical name for the Syria region.

“Syrians say Lebanon is our beach resort. So we need to move. And I know how frustrated the Lebanese people are. It frustrates me,” he added.

Barrack also said that the U.S., Saudi Arabia and Qatar are ready to help if Lebanon takes the lead.

As for Lebanon’s response to his latest proposal, the envoy said: “I thought it was responsive, very responsive,” while acknowledging that sticking points remain.