President-elect Donald Trump Appoints Tom Barrack as Ambassador to Türkiye

Washington, The Gulf Observer: U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced the appointment of Tom Barrack, founder of Colony Capital and a prominent businessman, as the next ambassador to Türkiye. The announcement was made via Trump’s Truth Social account on Tuesday.

“I am pleased to announce that Tom Barrack will serve as our next Ambassador to Türkiye,” Trump stated, describing Barrack as “a well-respected and experienced voice of reason” in both political and business circles. Trump congratulated Barrack, emphasizing his longstanding ties and contributions, including his role as chairman of Trump’s 2017 inaugural committee and key advisor to his 2016 presidential campaign.

Barrack, 77, is a Los Angeles native and the son of Lebanese immigrants. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California in 1969 and a Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego in 1972. His career in real estate investment began in 1976 as president of Dunn International Corporation, and in 1991, he founded Colony Capital, a leading real estate investment trust.

In addition to his business accomplishments, Barrack served as Deputy Undersecretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior during the Reagan administration from 1982 to 1983. His relationship with Trump dates back to the 1980s, when he facilitated Trump’s acquisition of a stake in a New York department store.

Barrack’s appointment underscores Trump’s commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties with Türkiye, a critical ally in the region.