James Jeffrey affirms US commitment to Middle East presence

Former US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Representative for Syria, James Jeffrey, stated during a meeting in Istanbul that the United States has no plans to withdraw from the Middle East. While clarifying that this does not necessarily mean a permanent military presence in specific locations like Bahrain, Iraq, or southern Syria, he emphasized, “We will stay in this region.”

Speaking at an event organized by the Transatlantic Strategic Programs Association in collaboration with The Wilson Center, Jeffrey also addressed regional security and international relations. He expressed support for the Mecca Alliance, describing it as “a good idea” for regional security. Regarding Iran, he noted that following US elections, the situation will likely result in either a diplomatic solution or a return to conflict, suggesting that any potential war would remain between the US and Iran.

On the subject of NATO and the war in Ukraine, Jeffrey identified the conflict as a major challenge for the alliance. He expressed optimism regarding the future of US-Turkey relations and suggested that a diplomatic solution regarding Russia may eventually be reached through NATO frameworks.