The Rest Is Classified 7. The Real Godfather: The Assassination that Shook Syria (Ep 2)
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Dec 19, 2024 The podcast reveals the intricate link between Rafic Hariri's assassination and the weakening of the Assad regime. It draws compelling parallels between Bashar al-Assad's rise to power and the dynamics of the Corleone crime family from 'The Godfather.' The gruesome details of the Beirut explosion that took Hariri's life are recounted, alongside its catastrophic aftermath. Listeners are taken through the political upheaval that followed, highlighting mass protests and investigations that forever altered Middle Eastern politics.
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Hariri's Coalition Building
- Rafik Hariri, after resigning, began forming a political coalition in Lebanon.
- This coalition opposed Syria's presence, further escalating tensions with Assad.
Assad's Personality Shift
- Bashar al-Assad displayed flashes of anger and aggression as he consolidated power.
- He reportedly engaged in numerous affairs with women within the Syrian elite.
Fallout from Hariri's Assassination
- Hariri's assassination led to significant fallout, including a UN commission.
- Widespread demonstrations in Lebanon ultimately forced Syria's military withdrawal after 30 years.
