Iran’s Proxies in Syria

Phillip Smyth comes back on the show to discuss recent news and issues related to Iranian proxy groups fighting in Syria. Some of the topics covered include:

• Large increase in recruiting by Iranian proxy groups starting in August
• Iran’s determination to keep Assad in power
• Iran’s sectarian training of forces in Syria
• Why Iran’s interest in Syria extends far beyond just maintaining their connection to Hezbollah in Lebanon
• The recent increase of senior Iranian commanders being killed in Syria
• The complex web of Iran-backed groups operating in Syria
• The long-term implications of Iran’s leadership casualties

Thanks to David, Wendy, and Ryan for supporting the show. If you’d like to help support the podcast, and get some cool rewards, check out the show’s Patreon page!

Links:

• Iran’s Losing Major Operatives in Syria – The Daily Beast
• Hizballah Cavalcade | JIHADOLOGY
• Phillip Smyth (@PhillipSmyth) on Twitter
• Karl Morand (@KarlMorand) on Twitter

Belgian Foreign Fighters in Iraq and Syria

Pieter Van Ostaeyen comes back on the show to discuss Belgian foreign fighters traveling to Iraq and Syria. Some of the topics covered include:

• The number of Belgians who’ve gone to Iraq and Syria and how it compares to other European countries
• Background on Sharia4Belgium and their role in getting Belgians to go to Syria and Iraq
• Efforts by the Belgian government to stop the flow of people out of the country to join the conflict
• Prosecutions of individuals and groups related to these issues

Links:

• Belgian Fighters in Syria and Iraq ~ October 2015 « pietervanostaeyen
• United Nations News Centre – With high number of foreign fighters in Belgium, UN experts call for robust action to address risks
• Pieter Van Ostaeyen (@p_vanostaeyen) on Twitter
• Karl Morand (@KarlMorand) on Twitter

Thanks to Andrew, Alex, and Scott for supporting the show! You can support the podcast by making a small donation on Patreon!