The Thinking Muslim Assad Was a Tyrant, Not an Anti-Imperialist with Moazzam Begg
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Dec 8, 2024 
Moazzam Begg, senior director of CAGE and author of 'Enemy Combatant,' shares compelling insights on the Syrian revolution. He reveals the brutal reality of Bashar al-Assad's tyranny, contrasting it with the regime's self-portrayal as anti-imperialist. The conversation delves into the troubling history of Western collaboration with Assad's regime and the deceptive narratives surrounding Syrian opposition. Begg also discusses the complexities of empathy in global conflicts and the implications of ISIS on the Syrian struggle for freedom.
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Unexpected Collaboration
- Despite being labeled a state sponsor of terrorism, Syria collaborated with Western intelligence agencies.
- This was driven by a shared animosity towards Islamists seeking Islamic governance.
Hama Prison Releases
- The recent liberation of Hama has allowed prisoners held for 40 years to return home.
- Hiba Dabag's book "Just Five Minutes" details the torture and repression within Syrian prisons.
Dehumanizing Syrians
- Some on the left support Assad and dismiss Syrian suffering for a perceived greater good.
- This dehumanizes Syrians and their struggle while supporting other causes like Palestine.
