In the Middle | Understanding the Arab World

Voices of Gaza: The Hidden Truth Behind the Protests

In this episode of In the Middle, host Sarah Martinez Amir is joined by Hussein Aboubakr Mansour, Egyptian-American writer and researcher at the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, to examine the unprecedented anti-Hamas protests in Gaza. The episode delves into the disconnect within the global pro-Palestinian movement, analyzing the contrast between Gazans protesting against Hamas and its brutal rule and the worldwide “Free Palestine” demonstrations that have glorified the terror group.

Turkey vs. Iran: Who Really Controls Post-Assad Syria?

In this episode of In the Middle, Sarah Martinez Amir and Hussein Abubakr Mansour break down the escalating power struggle between Turkey and Iran in post-Assad Syria. With jihadist factions exploiting instability, Iran backing Alawite loyalists, and Turkey maneuvering for control, Syria’s future hangs in the balance. What does the latest U.S.-brokered deal between the Kurdish SDF and the Syrian government mean for the region? And how will Iran’s covert operations shape the next phase of the conflict?

Why Egypt’s Gaza Plan Is Set to Fail

In this episode of “In the Middle,” Sarah Martinez Amir and Hussein Aboubakr Mansour dive deep into Egypt's counter-proposal to the Trump Gaza Plan, which was recently adopted by the Arab League. While Egypt's plan provides a diplomatic framework for Gaza’s future, it fails to address the central issue of Hamas and ignores the devastating October 7th attacks. The Egyptian proposal doesn't offer a clear path to disarming or neutralizing Hamas, which remains the core barrier to peace. The hosts explore how this omission underscores the divide among Arab nations, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE advocating for the immediate disarmament of Hamas, while others support a more gradual approach. How does this disagreement threaten the success of Egypt’s plan, and what are the broader implications for Gaza’s stability and Israel’s security?

Syria Under Al-Jolani: Can the New Leader Win Legitimacy?

The fall of the Assad regime will mark a turning point not just for Syria, but for the entire Middle East. In this episode of "In the Middle," Sarah Martinez Amir and Hussein Abubakr Mansour explore what comes next for Syria in a post-Assad era.Will the country descend into further chaos, or is there a path to stability? What role will regional and global powers play in shaping Syria’s future? And how will the fall of Assad impact Iran, Hezbollah, and the broader balance of power in the region?

Is There a Viable Path for a Clear Future for Gaza?

The October 7 attacks and the ensuing war in Gaza have reshaped how the Arab world views Hamas, the Palestinian cause, and the future of the Gaza Strip. In this episode of “In the Middle”, Sarah Martinez Amir and Hussein Abubakr Mansour break down the diverse reactions across the region.