The NPR Politics Podcast
Trump's Next Foreign Policy Challenge: Syria
Feb 27, 2025
Jane Arraf, an NPR international correspondent reporting from Damascus, shares her deep insights into Syria's post-civil war landscape. She discusses the delicate governance under Ahmed Ashara amidst skepticism from the U.S. and highlights the rich, yet fractured, ethnic and religious tapestry of the nation. Arraf also addresses the impact of U.S. sanctions on recovery efforts, the challenges of normalizing relations with America, and the role of U.S. troops in preventing ISIS resurgence while navigating a complex geopolitical climate.
16:54
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Quick takeaways
- The regime change in Syria presents a significant challenge for U.S. foreign policy, especially with 2,000 troops currently deployed in the region.
- Despite a semblance of normal life in Damascus, Syrians face persistent obstacles like poverty and infrastructure issues hindering their recovery efforts.
Deep dives
The Shift in Power Dynamics in Syria
The recent collapse of the regime in Syria marks a pivotal shift in the country's governance, led by interim president Ahmed Ashara. Ashara, known for his past ties with al-Qaeda, is attempting to unify various opposition factions to establish stability amidst ongoing challenges. The swift takeover of regime forces by opposition groups was a significant moment in Syria's history, indicating a drastic change after years of civil strife. This situation poses substantial concerns for international stakeholders, particularly the United States, as they navigate their responses to an increasingly complex political landscape.
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