The Complexity of the Syrian Insurgency

This chapter examines the challenges faced by the Syrian insurgency, including a lack of popular support and adverse economic conditions worsened by sanctions. It discusses the need for accountability and reconciliation, especially focusing on the roles of regional powers like Iran and the impact of their military actions. The speakers also critique common narratives about extremist groups and highlight the systematic violence inflicted on the Syrian populace by the Assad regime and its allies.

Transcript

chevron_right

Play full episode

chevron_right

Transcript

Episode notes

This Ramadan, support an alternative Muslim media platform rooted in faith, thought, and enlightened activism. Your donation is an investment in Sadaqah Jariyah, bringing you rewards that will last long after this life. Become a monthly member today and be part of The Thinking Muslim’s sacred mission.

Become a member here:

https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membership

Or give your one-off donation:

https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/donate

There has been what can only be described as an intense disinformation campaign in recent days regarding Syria. If we were to believe it, there exists an unholy alliance of the American right, Assadists, Iranian propagandists, and Russian trolls who argue the new Syrian government is intent on eradicating minorities in the western coastal cities and towns of Syria. Much of this has been driven by naked propaganda to undermine the new liberated Syria. However, is there any truth in the claims that civilians have been caught up and perhaps even targeted in reprisals as forces attempt to deal with a pro-Assad insurgency? And how should we understand the demands of Israel, which has suddenly become the protectors of the Druze in the south? Are we poised to see sectarianism used as an excuse to destabilise the new Syria?

To assist us in untangling fact from fiction, we have Hussam Ayloush on the show. He is the CEO of the California chapter Cair (Council on American Islamic Relations) and hails from Damascus, Syria.

You can find Hussam Ayloush here:

X: https://x.com/HussamA

Also, for the past 16 months, we all know how difficult it has been for food and essential supplies to reach the beleaguered people of Gaza. This, Insha'Allah, is changing. We have partnered with a charity, Baitulmaal, because now, more than ever, there is a need not only in Gaza but also in Turkish controlled Northern Syria and in all the places we routinely talk about in this program where our ummah is subject to abject poverty. We have chosen this charity because Baitulmaal is a non-profit with people on the ground who organize well-thought-out projects and serve the most needy.

To donate to their Critical Aid campaign, please visit the link on our screen now and in the description.

To donate to Baitulmaal's Critical Aid campaign, please visit:

http://btml.us/thinkingmuslim - Please do remember that charity never reduces our risk and gives Barakah to our wealth.

Let me remind all viewers that to help us continue to engage critical thought at this time, Please consider becoming a Member: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membership

You can also support The Thinking Muslim through a one-time donation: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/Donate

Listen to the audio version of the podcast:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vXiAjVFnhNI3T9Gkw636a

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-thinking-muslim/id1471798762

Purchase our Thinking Muslim mug: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/merch

Find us on:

Squarespace Membership: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membership

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thinking_muslim

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Thinking-Muslim-Podcast-105790781361490

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingmuslimpodcast/

Telegram: https://t.me/thinkingmuslim

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thinkingmuslim.bsky.social