Damascus: Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa Saturday met with US envoy Tom Barrack to discuss developments in Syria and the region, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). The meeting took place at the People's Palace in Damascus.

According to Anadolu Agency, the two sides discussed "developments in Syria and the region, and ways to enhance economic cooperation between the two countries." Barrack's visit comes amid stalled US-Iran negotiations mediated by Pakistan, raising concerns that the fragile truce in effect since April 8 could collapse if no agreement is reached. The ongoing conflict has been a significant factor in driving up energy prices and inflation.

Regional tensions have persisted since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, resulting in retaliatory attacks by Tehran against Israel and US allies in Gulf countries. This also led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments.

A ceasefire was brokered on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to achieve a lasting solution. Former President Trump extended the truce indefinitely while maintaining a blockade on vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports through the strategic strait.