Tom Barrack’s formal mandate as US Special Envoy to Syria expired in late May 2026, leading him to step down from that specific title after serving since May 2025 [1, 2, 3]. Despite this, Barrack will continue to play a central diplomatic role managing US policy in Syria, Iraq, and Turkey [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

On May 31, President Donald Trump officially named Barrack Special Presidential Envoy to both Syria and Iraq, while Barrack maintains his position as US Ambassador to Turkey, a post he was confirmed for in 2025 [4, 5, 1]. Trump said, “Tom will remain Ambassador to Türkiye, and operate with the full backing of the United States Department of State. We greatly appreciate the work that Tom Barrack has done, and his continued willingness to serve our Country” [5].

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Barrack as an indispensable member of the Trump administration. Rubio said, “Ambassador Tom Barrack has played an invaluable role as our Special Envoy to Syria. While that title is expiring, he will continue to play a leading role for the Trump Administration in Syria and Iraq, where his expertise, relationships, and understanding of the America First agenda will continue to deliver wins on behalf of our great country” [1]. Rubio added, “He is an indispensable member of the President's team, carries my full confidence, and operates with the full backing of the State Department. The American people are well served by his continued willingness to lead this work” [3].

During his tenure, Barrack influenced US policy toward a post-Assad Syrian interim government and coordinated counter-Islamic State operations alongside regional allies [1].

Barrack’s evolving roles reflect a shift from a sole focus as Special Envoy to Syria toward a broader oversight of US diplomatic efforts in the region. His continued presence as Ambassador to Turkey remains a key aspect of US relations with Ankara [4, 5].

Barrack’s envoy mandate ended on May 29 or 30, 2026, before his reappointment as Special Presidential Envoy to Syria and Iraq on May 31, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].