The Fall of Assad: A History of Syria Unraveled – with Dr. Michael Oren

The Fall of Assad: A History of Syria Unraveled – with Dr. Michael Oren

Author: Boundless Israel, Inc. December 11, 2024 Duration: 17:43

Syria’s collapse didn’t happen overnight. Born from the colonial borders of post-World War I, Syria has long been a fractured country, divided by sectarianism, tribal rivalries, and decades of brutal dictatorship. For years, Bashar al-Assad’s regime seemed untouchable, propped up by foreign support from Iran and Russia.

Now, in a sudden and decisive turn, Assad’s regime has fallen—an event few predicted and one with profound consequences for the region. Rebel factions, some with extremist ties, are vying for control, and Syria’s neighbors are jockeying to fill the power vacuum.

How did we get here? What does Assad’s collapse mean for Syria’s future, and how might this moment reshape the Middle East?

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to Washington and a leading expert on the region, to explore the history that led to Assad’s fall and what comes next for Syria, its people, and its neighbors.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/


In a world of endless takes and heated debates, finding clarity on issues facing Israel, antisemitism, and American Jewish life can feel overwhelming. Boundless Insights-with Aviva Klompas cuts through the noise with thoughtful, in-depth conversations designed to empower rather than just inform. This isn't about surface-level opinions; it's about engaging with the complex perspectives and difficult questions that define these critical topics. Each episode of the podcast brings you closer to understanding the nuances often lost in broader commentary, fostering a space for genuine dialogue. You'll hear discussions that are as substantive as they are accessible, moving from historical context to contemporary challenges. The goal is to provide listeners with a trusted resource-a place to find not just information, but the tools for deeper reflection. Tune in for a podcast that values thoughtful exploration over easy answers, all aimed at making sense of a complicated landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 152

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas
Podcast Episodes
From Gaza to Jenin – with Jonathan Conricus [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:08
While much of the world’s attention remains fixed on Gaza, the security situation in Judea and Samaria / the West Bank is escalating. In January, the IDF launched Operation Iron Wall, a major campaign aimed at dismantlin…
The Arab Plan for Gaza – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:16
For months, world leaders have been asking: What comes next for Gaza once the war ends?President Trump stirred controversy by suggesting an unconventional approach—relocating Palestinians from Gaza to other countries whi…
Saying Goodbye to Oded, Shiri, Ariel & Kfir - with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:11
This week, Israel laid to rest four murdered hostages—Oded Lifshitz, Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas—all from Kibbutz Nir Oz. Their names are now etched into the heart of a grieving nation.Oded Lifshitz was an 83-year-old p…
Coming Home in Coffins – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:30
Since October 7, it has felt like we’ve been trapped in an unending nightmare. That horror deepened when Hamas staged a grotesque spectacle in Gaza, parading the coffins of hostages through the streets.The scene was chil…
What Happened to Moral Courage? – with Bret Stephens [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:34
Since the horrific attacks of October 7, the absence of moral courage has been glaring. In a time when speaking the truth comes with real consequences—risking careers, reputations, and even personal safety—many have chos…
Trump’s Middle East Gamble – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:26
Donald Trump has upended global politics with a radical new proposal. He’s floated the idea of the U.S. taking control of Gaza and relocating the Palestinian population, calling it an opportunity to build a “Riviera of t…
Trump's Plan to Take Over Gaza – with Jonathan Schanzer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:08
President Donald Trump stunned the world when he announced that the United States should take over Gaza, clear the rubble, rebuild it into “the Riviera of the Middle East,” and relocate its population to other countries.…