The Rachman Review Fear and euphoria in Damascus
33 snips
Dec 19, 2024 Gideon Rachman talks with Raya Jalabi, the FT's Middle East correspondent, who provides keen insights from Damascus following the fall of Assad. They discuss the mixed feelings of celebration and fear among residents, balancing euphoria with concerns over instability. Jalabi sheds light on the unexpected professionalism of the rebel group HTS and their efforts to be more accepted by locals. The conversation also touches on the challenges of rebuilding Syria's governance, the clash of ideologies, and the ongoing pursuit of justice for Assad’s victims.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mixed Emotions in Damascus
- Raya Jalabi witnessed looting and mayhem at a Damascus duty-free mall shortly after Assad's departure.
- This was followed by mixed emotions in Damascus, with fear and gunfire alongside euphoric celebrations and revolutionary songs.
HTS's Disciplined Approach
- HTS, despite being an Islamist group, has shown surprising politeness and respect in its interactions.
- Their disciplined approach in Damascus, including deploying police forces, aims to win over residents.
Clash of Bureaucracies
- Jalabi observed a meeting between HTS technocrats and old regime civil servants, highlighting the clash of cultures.
- The meeting revealed the absurdity of the Ba'athist bureaucracy and HTS's desire to reform it.