The Jacob Shapiro Podcast #247 - Syria
Dec 16, 2024
Kamran Bokhari, a geopolitics expert from the Newlines Institute, joins to delve into the surprising downfall of the Assad regime. He breaks down the complexities of Syrian rebel factions and their foreign backers, highlighting Turkey’s critical involvement. The discussion shifts to Iran's waning influence and the rise of Kurdish nationalism, alongside the intricate relationships among regional powers like Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Bokhari also examines the decline of Arab nationalism and Islamism, shedding light on their struggles in today's fragmented Middle East.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Jolani's Transformation
- Jolani's rapid ideological shift from Al Qaeda/ISIS to Syrian nationalism is unusual.
- This transformation, potentially influenced by Turkish and Qatari support, raises questions about its depth and his group's future actions.
Winners and Losers
- Turkey and Qatar benefited from Assad's collapse, weakening Iranian influence.
- However, Turkey faces challenges balancing relations with Russia and the US while managing the complex Syrian situation.
The Kurdish Question
- The Kurds are a key factor in the Syrian conflict, with various actors potentially supporting them against Turkey.
- Turkey may seek to incorporate the Kurds into a political framework, but their autonomy remains a contentious issue.