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The Syrian Civil War, a seemingly frozen conflict for years, has taken a dramatic turn. Rebel forces have made significant gains, pushing back the Assad regime in a swift and unexpected offensive. What triggered this sudden shift? How did Israel’s recent actions against Hezbollah and Iran in Lebanon impact the dynamics in Syria? And what does this mean for the future of the country?
In this in-depth discussion, we explore these critical questions with Ilan Berman, a leading expert on Middle Eastern affairs.
We delve into:
- The creation of a “strategic vacuum”: How Israel’s successes against Hezbollah and Iran weakened the Assad regime, leaving it vulnerable to rebel attacks.
- The rise of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS): We examine the role of this powerful jihadist group, its connections to Al Qaeda, and its potential governance style.
- The impact on neighboring countries: We discuss the concerns of Jordan and other regional actors as the situation in Syria destabilizes.
- The fate of the Alawite minority: We explore the potential impact on this religious group that has long supported the Assad regime.
- The role of Russia and Iran: We analyze the implications of Russia’s partial withdrawal and Iran’s attempts to safeguard its interests in Syria.
- The future of Syria: We discuss the potential scenarios for the country, including the possibility of an Islamist government and the challenges that lie ahead.
Ilan Berman provides valuable insights into this complex and rapidly evolving situation, offering a deeper understanding of the key players, the potential consequences, and the uncertain future that lies ahead for Syria.
Don’t miss this insightful discussion on a critical moment in Syrian history.
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