FDD Morning Brief

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.

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.