FDD Morning Brief

Eitan Fischberger, a writer and Middle East analyst known for his insights on Qatari influence and Hamas, dives deep into pressing topics. He discusses the intertwining of Qatar and Hamas, unpacking recent leadership changes and the misinformation crisis in Gaza. Fischberger highlights the chaotic humanitarian situation, revealing how propaganda shapes public perception. Additionally, he addresses the growing concerns over Qatari influence in the West, especially within academia and media, reflecting on its implications for Western values and the Jewish community.

Join John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at West Point's Modern War Institute, as he delves into the escalating conflict in Gaza. He shares insights on Israel’s innovative military operations and their impact on humanitarian aid distribution. The discussion navigates the complex dynamics between Israel and Hamas, particularly in light of the aid's influence on civilian life. Spencer also analyzes the intricacies of conflict resolution and the geopolitical ramifications involving Iran and U.S. sanctions, highlighting the path toward a more stable future.

Jacob Magid, U.S. bureau chief at The Times of Israel, dives into the intricate weave of U.S.-Israel relations and the tense landscape of Israeli domestic politics. He highlights Israel's impressive defense tech, like using lasers to intercept missiles, alongside Lebanon's clampdown on Hezbollah. The episode also unpacks the complexities of hostage negotiations between Hamas and Israel, and the shifting dynamics of Middle Eastern diplomacy, particularly involving Syria and its historical ties with the U.S.

In this insightful discussion, Scooter Libby, a FDD Distinguished Fellow and former chief of staff to Vice President Dick Cheney, shares his expertise on Middle Eastern politics. He delves into the complexities of humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza, highlighting the newly formed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The conversation examines Germany's shifting stance on Israel and the politically charged decision by the World Health Organization to acknowledge the Palestinian flag. Libby also reflects on his impressive career in U.S. government and its impact on contemporary geopolitics.

Brandy Shufutinsky, Director of FDD's new education and national security program, delves into the troubling rise of foreign influence in the U.S. education system. She discusses the impact of anti-American and anti-Jewish rhetoric in K-12 schools and the urgent need for accountability in education. The conversation highlights risks from external financial influences and the importance of transparency. Shufutinsky also examines how recent geopolitical tensions affect educational integrity, emphasizing the intricate relationship between education and national security.

EGYPT, CHINA, AND THE HORN OF AFRICAHEADLINE 1: The Israeli cabinet approved plans to build a security barrier along Israel’s border with Jordan.HEADLINE 2: Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is traveling to Lebanon this week. And the corrupt alta cocker might actually notch a legitimate win.HEADLINE 3: The U.S. State Department announced a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the disruption of Hezbollah financial networks.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with FDD Research Analyst Mariam Wahba, whose work focuses on Egypt and minority communities in the Middle East.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/

In this discussion, Barak Barfi, a Middle East scholar specialized in Arab and Islamic affairs, delves into Syria's evolving political landscape. He evaluates whether the new regime is malign or moderate, while unpacking the recent lifting of U.S. sanctions. The conversation also highlights the volatile dynamics between Israel and Hamas, touching on humanitarian efforts and civilian relocation plans. Additionally, Barfi discusses the complexity of sectarian violence and the precarious position of minority groups amidst the shifting balance of power in the region.

In this discussion, Nadim Koteich, a seasoned Lebanese journalist and political analyst at Sky News Arabia, dives into President Trump’s recent Gulf trip and its transformative implications for the region. The conversation covers Trump's pivot toward a transactional U.S. foreign policy and the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. They also explore the challenges in post-Assad Syria, with a focus on navigating political instability while addressing Iran's nuclear ambitions and the potential for escalating tensions.

Andrea Stricker, Deputy Director of FDD's Nonproliferation and Biodefense Program, dives into the complexities of Saudi Arabia's nuclear ambitions and its potential nuclear cooperation with the U.S. She discusses the risks of uranium enrichment in the Middle East and how this could trigger a domino effect among neighboring countries, especially given rising tensions with Iran. The conversation also explores shifting geopolitical dynamics, highlighting the roles of Russia and China, and the implications for U.S.-Middle East relations.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Ghalili, a senior policy analyst at the National Union for Democracy in Iran, dives deep into the complexities of U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations and the contrasting political stances involved. He offers insights into the public's desire for international support against their regime. The conversation also touches on recent geopolitical developments in the Middle East, the significance of Turkey's role, and strategies for promoting regime change in Iran amidst ongoing tensions.