Damascus, Dec. 14 (SANA)SyrianForeign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibaniheld a phone call Sunday withU.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubioto discuss security cooperation and issues of mutual concern following an attack on a joint Syrian-U.S. military patrol near the ancient city of Palmyra.

During the call, the two officials exchanged condolences over the attack, which killed two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter. Several others were wounded, including U.S. personnel and members of the Syrian security forces.

Al-Shaibani expressed regret over the incident, describing it as a new challenge to counterterrorism efforts. He stressed the importance of close coordination between Syria and its international partners, particularly the United States, to confront such threats.

Both sides underscored the need to strengthen cooperation in combating terrorism, characterizing the attack as an attempt to undermine improving relations between Damascus and Washington.

Al-Shaibani also conveyed condolences fromSyrian President Ahmad al-Sharaato U.S. President Donald Trump and thanked Washington for its support, including efforts to accelerate the lifting of sanctions imposed under the Caesar Act.

Rubio reaffirmed continued U.S. support for Syrias government, including assistance focused on counterterrorism, efforts to stabilize the country and measures aimed at fostering economic recovery and regional stability.

The attack occurred Saturday when a gunman opened fire during a joint security meeting in Palmyra, in Syrias central Homs province.

A/Dh