US special representative heads to Turkey to discuss Syria

As Syrian President Bashar al-Assad prepares for an offensive against the last opposition-held stronghold of Syria’s Idlib, diplomatic efforts are increasing to prevent a “disaster.”

The State Department said the new U.S. special representative for Syria and also former U.S. ambassador to Ankara, James Jeffrey, will travel to Israel, Jordan, and Turkey with his delegation alongside from Saturday to Tuesday on his first official trip abroad.

“In Turkey, the Ambassador and DAS Rayburn will meet with Turkish leaders and other senior officials to reiterate the U.S. position that a military offensive in Idlib will escalate the crisis in Syria and the region, risk the lives of humanitarians and Syrian civilians, and destroy civilian infrastructure. They will also commend Turkish leadership on their continued compassion for those affected by the Syrian conflict,” a statement read.

The United Nations on Thursday called on Russia, Iran and Turkey to forestall a battle in Idlib which would affect millions of civilians.

Located near the Turkish border, Idlib has been designated as a de-escalation zone endorsed by Turkey, Russia and Iran where acts of aggression are expressly forbidden as part of the ongoing Astana process.