The Podcast of the Lotus Eaters PREVIEW: Realpolitik #23 | Israel, Iran, Venezuela and Ukraine
Dec 3, 2025
Explore the surprising utility of Hezbollah for Israel in maintaining regional chaos. Delve into the paradox of Israeli interests versus the threats from Iran, where military build-ups and unresolved nuclear issues create an ongoing standoff. Consider the brewing unrest in Venezuela and why the U.S. is pushing for peace in Ukraine. The podcast highlights Israel's strategic maneuvers in Syria, aiming to fracture its neighbors while maintaining a technological edge for potential conflicts ahead.
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Hezbollah As A Perverse Strategic Asset
- Israel benefits from Hezbollah's presence as a regional counterweight to Sunni/Turkish influence.
- Firas Modad argues Israel prefers a weakened Hezbollah to prevent Turkish-aligned groups from consolidating Lebanon.
Chaos As A Strategic Choice
- Israel wants chaos that keeps Syria and Lebanon fragmented and prevents Turkish consolidation.
- Modad links Israeli strategy to backing local groups (Druze, Kurds) to deny Damascus territorial control.
Turkey As The Rising Regional Threat
- Israel faces a three-way problem: Hezbollah (Iran), Syria (Turkey), and Turkish influence in northern Syria.
- Modad says preventing Turkey from controlling both Syria and Lebanon is a core Israeli concern.