FDD Morning Brief

Join Jonathan Hessen, an Israeli senior fellow and advisor on Syrian affairs at the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security, as he delves into pressing security issues. Hessen discusses the U.S. naval deployments in response to regional tensions and analyzes Israel's missile defense strategies. He highlights Syria's military posturing and the significant role of Turkey in shaping the conflict. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by minority groups like the Druze and Kurds. Prepare for an engaging deep dive into Middle Eastern dynamics!

In a compelling discussion, Cliff May, Founder and President of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, shares insights on geopolitical challenges. He analyzes the implications of Maduro's capture for U.S. strategy, warning of the interim government's instability. The conversation shifts to Ukraine, where May elaborates on Putin's ambitions and ongoing resistance. He also highlights the Iranian protests and discusses the intricate ties between Cuba and Venezuela, emphasizing the potential fallout on regional politics. May's expert commentary sheds light on a shifting global landscape.

Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior director at FDD's Iran Program, dives deep into the current wave of protests in Iran, labeling them as the most significant anti-regime movement in decades. He highlights the struggle during the internet blackout and the stark rise in casualties. Discussing the unique demographic shift, Ben identifies this uprising's evolution from a call for reform to demands for revolution. He emphasizes the importance of international support and the risks associated with negotiating with the regime, calling for strategic measures to empower the protesters.

Gadeer Kamal Mreeh, a former Knesset member and prominent Druze public figure, offers valuable insights into Israel's national security landscape. She shares her journey as the first Druze woman in the Knesset and the delicate balance of representing diverse communities. Gadeer highlights the growing pressures on Druze populations in the region and Israel's strategic interests in southern Syria. She also discusses the implications of Turkish and Qatari influence, as well as the current political climate and the likelihood of Netanyahu's return to power.

Carine Hajjar, an opinion journalist at The Washington Post with a focus on the Middle East and Venezuela, discusses the impact of Venezuelan politics on Hezbollah's operations. She explores the implications of a potential Maduro downfall for Iran, given their strategic alliance. The conversation also delves into U.S. policies targeting illicit oil shipments and aiding Iranian protesters. Additionally, Hajjar reflects on domestic protests in the U.S. and the fragile stability in Lebanon, highlighting risks of civil conflict related to Hezbollah.

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery, now a senior director at FDD’s Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation, shares insights on the complexities of the Maduro operation. He discusses the rare planning for long-range capture missions and the involvement of U.S. special forces. Montgomery highlights the operation's mixed motives, touching on issues like drug trafficking and energy leverage. He emphasizes the critical need for stabilization and legitimate elections in Venezuela while addressing regional impacts on China and the broader axis of aggressors.

FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Ambassador Jeff Bartos, who serves as the U.S. Representative for UN Management and Reform.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief

IS THE BONDI BEACH MASSACRE AUSTRALIA'S WAKE-UP CALL?HEADLINE 1: The United States just slapped new sanctions on Iran’s shadow oil fleet. HEADLINE 2: Israel, Greece, and Cyprus are mulling a military coalition to deter the Turks.HEADLINE 3: U.S. MidEast envoy Steve Witkoff is heading to Gaza ceasefire talks…. In Miami. ---FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Joel Burnie, executive manager of the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council.Learn more at: fdd.org/fddmorningbrief---Featured FDD Pieces:"It’s time for Brussels to designate Yemen’s Houthis as a terrorist organization' - Behnam Ben Taleblu and Bridget Toomey, Euractiv"Mostly quiet on the Gazan front" - Clifford D. May, The Washington Times"How Turkey Props up Venezuela" - Sinan Ciddi and William Doran, The National Interest

HEADLINE 1: Qatar is once again pushing Washington to sell it F-35s.HEADLINE 2: Israel facilitated the exit of more than 200 Palestinians from Gaza.HEADLINE 3: Hamas is abusing Gazans. Again.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Miriam Haart, who starred in the hit Netflix TV series My Unorthodox Life.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief--Featured FDD Pieces:"Lebanon Must Pick the Abraham Accords over the Muslim Brotherhood" - Hussain Abdul-Hussain, This Is Beirut"How to Finish off the Muslim Brotherhood" - Ahmad Sharawi, The National Interest"Is Bondi Beach a sign that ISIS is making a comeback?" - Seth J. Frantzman, The Jerusalem Post

FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with political satirist and "Oh My World" podcast host Hagar Chemali.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief