Judging Freedom Ray McGovern: Did Russia Give Up Syria?
Dec 9, 2024
Ray McGovern, a seasoned expert in American intelligence and foreign policy, shares his insights on Syria's tumultuous landscape. He discusses the covert operations by U.S. intelligence aimed at regime change and the ethical dilemmas intertwined with them. McGovern examines claims of Russia's abandonment of Syria and the shifting dynamics of leadership. The conversation also highlights how U.S. and U.K. policies are influenced by Israeli interests and Turkey's alliances, along with the challenges of oversight in intelligence leadership.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early CIA Operations
- The CIA's first covert regime change operation was in 1947, targeting Syria.
- In 1953, they overthrew Iran's Mossadegh, demonstrating their involvement in such activities.
CIA's Operational Focus
- The CIA's operational side, not analysts, drives decisions like funding groups like Jelani's.
- This disconnect highlights the agency's willingness to engage with controversial actors.
Israel's Preferred Outcome in Syria
- Eight years prior, Israeli official Alon Pinkas admitted Israel's preference for continued conflict in Syria.
- This conflict weakens Syria, benefiting Israel.