Orla Guerin, a seasoned BBC international correspondent with extensive experience in the Middle East, joins the discussion from Damascus. She explores the controversial rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda fighter turned president. Topics include his unexpected support at the UN, ambitions for Syria's future, and the complexities of transitioning to democracy. Orla also addresses concerns about governance, local social values, and the potential implications for international relations, particularly regarding US interests in the region.
