Judging Freedom Sharmine Narwani : The Slow Strangling of Syria and Lebanon
Jan 29, 2026
Sharmine Narwani, Middle East analyst and editor of The Cradle, unpacks shifting power in Syria and Lebanon. She traces rehabilitation of extremist figures, maps competing forces and foreign footprints, and explains regional rivalries from Turkey to the UAE. She explores Israeli aims over routes and water, Hezbollah’s standing, and risks of wider conflict involving Iran and U.S. naval responses.
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Syria's Leadership Lacks Clear Popular Mandate
- Sharmine Narwani recounts that many Sunnis recognize the self-proclaimed Syrian president while minorities distrust him.
- She notes Syria's lack of credible nationwide elections prevents knowing true popular support.
Policy Driven By Simplified Briefings
- Sharmine Narwani argues Donald Trump follows simplistic briefings and advisers when forming foreign-policy views.
- She suggests Trump's choices reflect superficial assessments rather than deep regional understanding.
Competing Foreign Footprints Shape Syria
- Russia's limited on-the-ground role contrasts with other powers shaping Syria's future.
- Sharmine Narwani highlights Turkey's shifting alignment and efforts to reduce the U.S.-backed Kurdish zone.