Title Edit: title improved, missing info added, removed ‘(Live)’
Introduction and Overview
- The discussion begins with Alexander Mercuris introducing Professor Jeffrey Sachs and acknowledging the importance of the topics they will cover, particularly the situation in Syria.
- The urgency of the conversation is emphasized due to the recent dramatic events in Syria, including the collapse of the Assad government.
- Professor Sachs is noted for his insights, and viewers are encouraged to follow his work through links provided in the chat.
Current Events in Syria
- The conversation quickly shifts to the current situation in Syria, highlighting the recent developments that have led to the Assad government's collapse.
- Professor Sachs discusses Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's statements regarding Israel's long-term strategy in the Middle East, which he claims is part of a broader plan that has been in motion for decades.
- The weakening of the Assad government is attributed to Israel's military actions against Hezbollah and Hamas, which have historically supported Assad.
Historical Context and Israeli Strategy
- Professor Sachs references a 1996 paper titled "Clean Break," which outlined a strategy for Israel to reshape the Middle East, including the removal of its enemies with U.S. support.
- He mentions General Wesley Clark's claims post-9/11 about a plan to overthrow seven countries, including Syria, as part of this strategy.
- The discussion includes the rationale behind the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, which was seen as the first step in this broader plan, despite Iraq's lack of involvement in the 9/11 attacks.
Consequences of Military Actions
- The failure to immediately remove Assad following the Iraq invasion is discussed, with Professor Sachs explaining that U.S. military resources became tied down in Iraq due to unforeseen insurgencies.
- He indicates that the recent military actions in Syria are part of a long-term strategy that has culminated in the current chaos, which is viewed as detrimental to regional stability.
- The potential for increased chaos in the Middle East is emphasized, with Sachs arguing that this instability may ultimately harm Israel more than it benefits them.
Future Implications for the Region
- Professor Sachs raises concerns about the long-term ramifications of the current military strategies, suggesting that they will lead to more conflict and instability in the region.
- He discusses the historical context of U.S. interventions in the Middle East, stating that they have consistently led to chaos and have failed to produce lasting peace or stability.
- The consequences of the U.S. and Israeli strategies are framed as a cycle of violence that has not resolved any underlying issues.
Comments on International Relations
- The conversation touches on the relationship between the U.S. and Israel, suggesting that U.S. support for Israel's actions has contributed to the ongoing turmoil in the region.
- Sachs expresses skepticism regarding the effectiveness of European nations in stabilizing the situation, citing historical failures and a lack of coherent policy.
- The potential for a new refugee crisis in Europe as a result of the Syrian collapse is discussed, with warnings about the implications for European security and stability.
Conclusion and Reflection
- The discussion concludes with a bleak outlook on the future of Syria and the broader Middle East, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of current strategies.
- Professor Sachs reiterates that the historical patterns of intervention have led to repeated failures and ongoing conflict, calling for a more peaceful approach.
- The importance of understanding the human cost of these geopolitical maneuvers is highlighted, with a call for greater awareness of the realities faced by the people in the region.
Syria power vacuum w/ Jeffrey Sachs (Live)
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Follow Jeffrey Sachs: The Center for Sustainable Development (CSD), https://csd.columbia.edu/
About: The Duran is a news-media platform that advances a realpolitik position The Duran is not right, left or center. It is a media site that focuses on a pragmatic analysis of stories in the news.
realpolitik, politics based on practical objectives rather than on ideals. The word does not mean “real” in the English sense but rather connotes “things”—hence a politics of adaptation to things as they are. Realpolitik thus suggests a pragmatic, no-nonsense view and a disregard for ethical considerations. In diplomacy it is often associated with relentless, though realistic, pursuit of the national interest.
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