The Jordan Harbinger Show 217: Matthew Schrier | How to Survive in a Secret Syrian Terrorist Prison
Jun 27, 2019
Matthew Schrier, an American photographer and author, shares his gripping tale of survival after being kidnapped by Al-Qaeda in Syria. He reveals how humor helped him gain special treatment from captors, despite enduring harrowing conditions. Schrier reflects on the betrayal he felt from the FBI and U.S. government, prioritizing intelligence over American safety. He discusses his escape and the complex dynamics of trust and emotional turmoil experienced in captivity. Remarkably, despite the trauma, he harbors no regrets about venturing into Syria.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Syria Trip
- Matthew Schrier, a photojournalist, went to Syria to document the war, his second time in the country.
- He was cautious, planning meticulously, yet got captured 45 minutes from the border on his way home.
The Note
- Schrier's host deceptively arranged his capture, giving him a note with a hidden message for the kidnappers.
- The note likely labeled Schrier as a CIA agent, leading to his abduction.
Capture
- Schrier was captured on his way to the airport after completing his photography work in Aleppo.
- A Jeep Cherokee cut off his cab, and armed men took him, blindfolding him with his own ski cap.
