TRIGGERnometry Can We Stop Terrorism and What Do Islamists Want?
Sep 15, 2019
Filmmaker and author Thomas Small delves into the tumultuous landscape of Middle Eastern politics. He discusses the roots of terrorism and the complexities of ISIS's evolution from a territorial to an ideological threat. Small shares insights on Syria's civil war and its humanitarian impact, particularly the migration crisis facing Europe. The conversation also critiques Western interventions and explores the historical tensions that shape contemporary conflicts, urging a deeper understanding of cultural and religious narratives.
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Middle Eastern Views on America
- Middle Eastern views on America are diverse and complex, varying by region, political stance, and religious sect.
- Generalizations about the "Middle East" reveal a lack of understanding about the region's diversity.
Zionism Explained
- Zionism is the Jewish form of nationalism, specifically focused on establishing a nation-state in the Holy Land.
- Muslim opposition to Zionism has seen some thawing, particularly among governments due to shared concerns about Iran.
Gulf States' Fear of Iran
- Gulf states fear Iran due to its constitutionally enshrined commitment to spreading its revolution, its support for destabilizing non-state actors, and its control over neighboring countries through proxies.
- Iran frames its actions as defensive, claiming it's protecting itself from American influence and aggression.