Thomas Small - The Battle of Syria: The Druze, The Massacres and The Turmoil

Middle East expert Thomas Small joins The Winston Marshall Show for a gripping, eye-opening conversation on the chaos in Syria—focusing on the horrific massacres of the Druze minority and the explosive aftermath of Assad's fall.

Small breaks down the recent surge of violence, shedding light on complex tribal dynamics, historical conflicts between Druze and Bedouin tribes, and how Israel's strategic goals have fueled instability in the region. He explains the rise of Jolani, the enigmatic leader now ruling Syria, detailing his shifting allegiances, pragmatism, and complicated relationships with Israel, Iran, and the U.S.

They discuss Hezbollah's role, Iran's regional ambitions, the aftermath of Israel's devastating 12-day war against Iran, and the volatile new geopolitical landscape emerging from Syria’s continuing chaos.

All this—the Druze massacres, Israel’s controversial tactics, Jelani’s uncertain agenda, and the hidden complexities behind Syria’s spiraling crisis…

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:43 Complexity of the Druze Conflict

13:25 Israel's Policy and Druze Community Dynamics

23:50 Israel's Strategic Calculus and Assad's Fall

33:52 Assad's Fall and Regional Dynamics

43:50 Jolani's and Syrian Government's Efforts

59:58 Israel's Recent Actions and Their Impact

1:09:44 Opportunities for Regional Stability

1:12:31 Qatari Influence and Criticism

1:18:24 Syria's Potential for Stability and Return of Syrians

1:19:39 Religious Tensions

1:22:09 Final Thoughts

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