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

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