The Truth of the Matter
Piecing Together What Happened in Syria
Dec 12, 2024
Norman Roule, a former CIA officer with 34 years of experience focused on the Middle East, discusses the survival of the Assad regime and the roles of Iran and Russia. He explores bureaucratic issues in these countries that have allowed groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to gain ground quickly. Roule also critiques the military strategies of the Syrian regime, highlights the current geopolitical struggles, and suggests actions the U.S. can undertake to promote peace and stability in the region.
22:26
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Quick takeaways
- Iran's Quds Force and Russia's military collaboration were pivotal in maintaining Assad's regime, despite significant external and internal pressures.
- The emergence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham highlights the need for a strategic U.S. response to prevent a resurgence of extremism in Syria.
Deep dives
The Role of Iran and Russia in Assad's Survival
Iran's Quds Force played a crucial role in helping Bashar al-Assad maintain power during the Arab Spring, despite facing significant challenges and losses. The Quds Force lacked essential military resources like air power and artillery, prompting Qasem Soleimani to secure increased Russian support. This collaboration involved Iranian ground forces and Russian aerial support, which ultimately helped Assad fend off opposition forces. However, as the situation evolved, additional pressures, including increased Israeli actions against Iranian leaders, diminished the effectiveness of Iran's strategy in Syria.
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