U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Thomas J. Barrack Jr., is spearheading discussions between Israel and Syria to resolve their border conflict. The talks are part of broader U.S. efforts to prioritize economic development over nation-building in the Middle East, according to Barrack. Barrack, who is in his first diplomatic role at age 78, emphasized that the administration is focusing on fostering economic growth rather than pursuing extensive nation, building initiatives in the region.