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France Urges Cooperation with Syria to Combat ISIS Resurgence

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

France's foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot prioritized fighting the Islamic State during his visit to Damascus.
He said his talks with Syria's foreign minister Asaad al-Shaibani focused on preventing IS resurgence.
Barrot said Western powers must work with Syria's government to address the IS threat, despite trust issues.
The agreement undermines Kurdish autonomy in northern Syria, established during the civil war from 2011 to 2024.

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Story summary

France's foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot prioritized fighting the Islamic State during his visit to Damascus.
He said his talks with Syria's foreign minister Asaad al-Shaibani focused on preventing IS resurgence.
Barrot said Western powers must work with Syria's government to address the IS threat, despite trust issues.
The agreement undermines Kurdish autonomy in northern Syria, established during the civil war from 2011 to 2024.