FDD Events Podcast
FDD Morning Brief | feat. Andrew Tabler (Dec. 9)
Dec 9, 2024
Andrew Tabler, a senior fellow at The Washington Institute, shares his deep insights on the Syrian conflict. He discusses his firsthand experiences under the Assad regime and the evolving power of militant groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham amidst regional changes. The conversation also highlights the complexities involving Iran-backed Shia militias and their impact on Iraq-U.S. relations. Additionally, Tabler explores the geopolitical chess match between Israel and Hezbollah post-civil war, shedding light on the regional power dynamics at play.
26:32
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Quick takeaways
- The collapse of the Assad regime, largely due to the absence of Iranian and Russian support, has dramatically altered regional power dynamics.
- The uncertain future of Syria, with potential for both unification under a new regime and fragmentation into sectarian enclaves, raises significant stability concerns.
Deep dives
Fall of the Assad Regime
The Assad regime in Syria has collapsed, marking a significant shift in the power dynamics of the region. Sunni rebels quickly overran the country, leading to the removal of one of the most notorious dictatorships known for its severe human rights violations. While the ousting may suggest a promising future for many Syrians, concerns remain about the potential rise of extremist groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which may fill the power vacuum. The episode raises questions about the United States' role in regime change and the mistakes made in previous interventions in the Middle East.
