FDD Morning Brief

Andrew Tabler, a senior fellow at The Washington Institute, shares his deep insights on the Syrian conflict. He discusses his firsthand experiences under the Assad regime and the evolving power of militant groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham amidst regional changes. The conversation also highlights the complexities involving Iran-backed Shia militias and their impact on Iraq-U.S. relations. Additionally, Tabler explores the geopolitical chess match between Israel and Hezbollah post-civil war, shedding light on the regional power dynamics at play.

Joseph Braude, President of the Center for Peace Communications, highlights urgent geopolitical issues in the Middle East. He discusses the rising anti-Semitism linked to recent events, and the complex dynamics involving Qatar, Hamas, and U.S. relations. Braude shares powerful stories of resistance from Gaza and Lebanon, showcasing the struggles against oppressive forces. He also dives into the role of Arabic media in countering propaganda and promoting change, while emphasizing the need for international support against authoritarian regimes.

Benjamin Anthony, co-founder and CEO of The MirYam Institute, discusses his recent experiences volunteering in Gaza and the complexities of the conflict. He shares insights on military operations and logistics faced by troops while contrasting them with past conflicts. The conversation also highlights the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, including the roles of Iran and Turkey, and the intricacies of U.S. sanctions. Anthony offers a unique perspective on the interplay between military actions and political strategies, shedding light on the situation's broader implications.

Captain Chris 'Chowdah' Hill, a seasoned naval aviator and commanding officer of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, shares gripping insights from his recent deployment in the Red Sea. He discusses the complexities of regional conflicts, emphasizing the challenges in achieving a ceasefire amid escalating tensions. Hill highlights the operational hurdles faced by the U.S. Navy, the morale struggles of sailors on extended deployments, and the innovative ways they maintain connections with loved ones. His experiences shed light on the delicate balance between military action and diplomacy in today’s geopolitical landscape.

Join Bruce Hoffman, a leading expert in counterterrorism and homeland security at the Council on Foreign Relations, as he dives into the complexities of modern terrorism. He discusses the impact of drone technology on terrorist strategies and the rise of extremist threats domestically. Hoffman also explores geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Israel and Iran, and examines how the pandemic has fueled far-right and far-left extremism in the U.S. His insights shed light on the evolving landscape of security challenges today.

In this insightful conversation, Jonathan Spyer, Director of Research at the Middle East Forum and a seasoned British-Israeli analyst, discusses the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He reflects on his experiences in Southern Lebanon after the 2006 war, highlighting Hezbollah's influence. Spyer addresses the multifaceted Gaza conflict and the challenging path toward ceasefires in Lebanon, all while examining geopolitical threats, including emerging cybersecurity challenges related to China and Russia.

Orde Kittrie, a Senior Fellow at FDD and a law professor at Arizona State University with a focus on international law in the Middle East, shares insights on the complex geopolitical landscape in the region. They discuss the precarious situation between Israel and Hezbollah amid ongoing conflict. Kittrie analyzes the implications of ICC warrant issues for Israeli leaders and the controversial ties of UNRWA to Palestinian groups. The conversation also touches on U.S. foreign policy dynamics, particularly regarding legal proceedings against Israel and national security concerns.

Gary Osen, managing partner at Osen LLC, specializes in anti-terrorism lawsuits and is currently suing Iran on behalf of victims of the October attacks. He discusses the intricacies of holding nations accountable for terrorism and the difficulties in recovering financial judgments against Iranian entities. The conversation also highlights the complex relationships between Iran, Hamas, and international legal frameworks. Additionally, the impact of U.S. sanctions on regional stability and how these legal battles shape geopolitical dynamics are explored.

David Daoud, a Senior Fellow at FDD and an IDF veteran with expertise in Lebanon, joins the discussion to explore the intricate dynamics of the Middle East. He highlights Hezbollah's potential willingness to negotiate ceasefire terms with the Lebanese government amidst ongoing Israeli military pressure. Daoud delves into Hezbollah's resilience and political dominance, the leadership crisis following Hassan Nasrallah's death, and the geopolitical shifts affecting U.S.-Turkey relations. The conversation provides valuable insights into the region's evolving security landscape and Lebanon's internal struggles.

Madhav Nalapat, UNESCO Peace Chair at Manipal University and Editorial Director at ITV Network, shares insightful perspectives on India's approach to Middle Eastern conflicts. He discusses the impact of a CIA official’s arrest in Cambodia on anti-Israel sentiment within U.S. agencies. Nalapat explores Hezbollah's struggles and the cautious optimism of Lebanese citizens. He dives into India's complex relationship with the U.S. and Israel while highlighting the importance of focusing on the Indo-Pacific amidst global threats.