Ex-US Envoy Calls Syria Policy Reversal ‘Bizarre’

A former US State Department adviser on Syria

A former US State Department adviser on Syria has described the recent thaw in Washington’s ties with Damascus as “bizarre” and hard to process, reflecting a dramatic change from years of hostility.

In an interview with Al Jazeera’s “This is America,” the ex-official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the shift in relations felt like a sudden rewrite of diplomatic history. He noted that for over a decade, US policy had been defined by sanctions, isolation, and calls for regime change.

“To go from that to open dialogue—it’s surreal, almost like a dream you can’t shake,” he said. The official, who once helped craft strategy on Syria, admitted that many former colleagues are struggling to accept the new reality.

The change comes amid broader regional realignments and

The change comes amid broader regional realignments and shifting priorities in Washington, which have led to quiet diplomatic back-channels with Damascus. The ex-advisor warned, however, that trust remains thin and that old wounds could reopen quickly.

He also pointed out that ordinary Syrians, who have suffered through years of war, may view the rapprochement with skepticism, wondering if their interests will be forgotten again. The official urged the US to be transparent about its goals and to ensure that any engagement benefits the people, not just the government.

While the full implications are still unclear, the former advisor concluded that the reversal is a stark reminder of how quickly geopolitics can change, leaving even seasoned policymakers feeling like outsiders in their own field.