Judging Freedom Kevork Almassian: Israel Bombs Beirut Suburbs
Apr 28, 2025
Kevork Almassian, an expert on Middle Eastern politics and the Syrian conflict, dives deep into the complexities of Israel's military strategies in Lebanon. He discusses the ramifications of Netanyahu's actions and the impact on civilian life, emphasizing humanitarian norms amidst escalating tensions. The conversation also covers the power vacuum in Syria post-Assad, the U.S.'s intricate relationship with Israeli military operations, and the controversial use of humanitarian aid in conflict zones. Almassian presents a critical perspective on nuclear tensions and the quest for a nuclear-free Middle East.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Dahiya Doctrine Backfires
- Israel employs the Dahiya doctrine, deliberately bombing civilian areas to pressure Hezbollah by turning locals against it.
- This strategy backfires, emboldening and increasing support for Hezbollah rather than weakening it.
Impunity Encourages Resistance
- Israel acts with impunity due to support from powerful allies, ignoring international laws.
- This encourages resistance groups like Hezbollah, as people see armed resistance as the only defense against occupation.
New Normal in Warfare
- Israel has normalized warfare involving high civilian casualties without accountability.
- This new norm threatens global security as such tactics could be justified elsewhere without consequences.