Heidi Pett, a Damascus-based journalist, dissects Ahmed al-Sharaa's swift rise to power and the implications of lifted US sanctions on Syria. Hannah Lucinda-Smith, an Istanbul correspondent, shares insights on Turkey's current affairs, including a factory explosion and regional headlines. Mai Pandek, an Israeli lawyer and activist, introduces a unique 'two states, one homeland' vision for shared governance in Jerusalem. Dave Guja discusses the booming global travel market, highlighting Middle East growth, while acclaimed author Helen Garner reflects on her award-winning diary collection.