FDD Events Podcast

Harry Coker, Jr. serves as the National Cyber Director, the president's key advisor on cybersecurity. He discusses the development of a national cybersecurity strategy and its execution against rising threats from adversaries like China and Russia. Coker highlights the importance of federal resource alignment, enhancing public-private partnerships, and building a skilled cybersecurity workforce. He also emphasizes the critical need for trust within federal leadership to improve operational efficiency and strengthen the nation's cyber resilience.

FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Dr. Kenneth Stein, founding president of the Atlanta-based Center for Israel Education and former director of the Institute for the Study of Modern Israel at Emory University.Learn more at: fdd.org/fddmorningbrief

Andrew Fox, a research fellow at the Henry Jackson Society and former British military officer, shares insights into the intricate geopolitics of the Middle East. He discusses Iran’s influence in Syria and Turkey’s support for Hamas, highlighting critical military actions. Fox also delves into his report 'Questionable Counting,' revealing discrepancies in casualty figures from both IDF and Hamas, and critiques the media's role in shaping these narratives. Lastly, he addresses the challenges in Syria and the implications for UK political dynamics.

FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Joseph Gebeily, founder and former president of the Lebanese Information Center.Learn more at: www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/

RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery, a former U.S. Navy Rear Admiral and expert in cyber innovation, shares insights on the escalating conflicts in the Middle East. He discusses the complex interplay of terrorist organizations and the growing roles of Turkey and Qatar. The conversation highlights challenges in U.S. military support for Israel amid rising tensions and examines strategic wins in national defense legislation. Montgomery also analyzes the implications of regional dynamics, particularly regarding Syria, Israel, and Hezbollah's influence.

Olivia Reingold, a staff writer for The Free Press, dives into the complexities of anti-Israel activism on U.S. campuses. She discusses how media bias affects narratives surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict and shares her experiences with hostility in academic settings. The conversation also touches on the implications of extreme rhetoric, the financial backing of campus activism, and the shift away from traditional media in reporting conflicts. Reingold's insights reveal the challenging landscape of activism and antisemitism in contemporary society.

FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Jay Solomon, chief investigative reporter for The Free Press.Learn more at: fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/

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.