The Munk Debates Podcast Munk Dialogue with Michael Weiss: how Assad's fall is reshaping the Middle East
Dec 10, 2024
In this discussion, Michael Weiss, an investigative journalist known for his expertise in Syria and Ukraine, dissects the seismic fallout of Assad's regime collapse. He highlights the potential chaos reminiscent of Libya and Iraq as rebel forces gain ground. Weiss discusses the shifting alliances among regional powers like Iran, Turkey, and Israel, emphasizing the rising tensions and geostrategic maneuvers. He also critiques Western intervention and the pressing need for humanitarian aid, shedding light on the aspirations of the Syrian people for a better future.
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Assad Regime's Brutality
- The Assad regime was a dynastic dictatorship built on terror, ruling through brutal civil war.
- Images emerging from Syria reveal the horrors of the regime, similar to the end of Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union.
HTS and State-Building
- HTS, a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, spearheaded the offensive, raising concerns about its intentions despite claims of inclusivity.
- HTS has been building a state in Idlib under Turkish protection, learning from the failures of ISIS and Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.
Shifting Jihadist Strategy
- Jihadism has transformed; groups now focus on local state-building instead of transnational terrorism to avoid overwhelming military responses.
- Jolani's outreach to Iraq, a Shia-majority country, demonstrates a pragmatic shift from his past with ISIS's anti-Shia agenda.