William Christou

William Christou, Foreign correspondent for The Guardian, shares his insights from Damascus, reporting on the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad's fall. He captures the exhilarating yet chaotic atmosphere following the regime's collapse, with citizens celebrating newfound freedom amidst lingering fear. Anas al-Drooby, a telecom engineer and recent returnee, reflects on the emotional scars and the hope for a better future. Their discussion delves into life under oppressive rule, the challenges of rebuilding, and the complexities of navigating a fragmented society.

William Christou, a Guardian correspondent focused on Lebanon and Syria, teams up with Amar al-Azam, a professor of Middle East History at Shawnee State University. They dive deep into Syria's surge in treasure hunting amid civil unrest and the dire consequences for cultural heritage. The discussion highlights looted sites like Palmyra, the role of ISIS in profiting from destruction, and the economic desperation driving locals to excavate. They also cover initiatives to preserve history and the complex gray market of antiquities, emphasizing the responsibility of collectors.

Will Christou, a Guardian journalist based in Beirut, shares his insights on Lebanon's recent turmoil. He discusses the fragile ceasefire after two months of war, revealing the humanitarian crisis that has left thousands dead and many displaced. Christou highlights the haunting emotional toll on civilians returning to their ravaged communities. He delves into the complexities of Hezbollah's evolving influence and the strategic dynamics of the ceasefire amidst ongoing regional tensions, painting a vivid picture of a nation struggling for peace.