On this episode of the podcast, Steven Simon, former Senior Director of the White House National Security Council, dives into the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, analyzing the influence of regional dynamics such as the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and Turkey’s strategic interventions. Simon explores Hay’at Tahrir al-Shams (HTS) grip on Damascus, the precarious state of the Alawite minority, and the multifaceted role of the U.S. involvement, from sanctions and aid to the critical need for Kurdish protection. Additionally, Simon also shares his perspective on the challenges awaiting the incoming Trump Administration, particularly the balancing act between U.S. interests and regional alliances with Israel and Turkey. Drawing from his latest book, “Grand Delusion,” Simon critiques America’s Middle East policy and calls for a more cautious, pragmatic approach to engagement in the region.