Political Gabfest Syria’s Collapse, Israel’s Delight
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Dec 12, 2024 Join Steven A. Cook, a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and a Middle East expert, as he delves into the crumbling al-Assad regime in Syria, exploring the role of regional players like Hezbollah and Iran. The conversation shifts to the unexpected public sentiment surrounding a healthcare CEO’s assassination, revealing deep-rooted frustrations with the healthcare system. They also tackle the contentious issue of birthright citizenship in the U.S. and its implications for modern society. Cook’s insights shed light on these pressing geopolitical and societal challenges.
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Syrian Collapse
- The Assad regime's collapse was triggered by a limited operation by Islamist and Turkish-backed forces.
- The Syrian military folded due to unpaid soldiers and renewed civilian uprisings.
HTS and Al-Jolani
- HTS leader Abu Muhammad al-Jolani presents a seemingly moderate image but has a concerning record.
- His rhetoric suggests a repressive Islamist government, not a tolerant or inclusive one.
US Policy Challenges
- Trump's 2017 bombing of Syria aimed to address chemical weapons use but also involved troop withdrawal.
- The regime change necessitates a continued US presence to counter extremist groups.