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Short Summary

1. The Mint Press News podcast hosted by [Mnar Adley] discusses recent developments in Syria, focusing on the fall of President Assad and the rise of al-Qaeda's affiliate, HTS, which has gained support from Turkey, Israel, and the U.S.
2. Professor Dr. [Mohammad Marandi] provides insights into the implications of these changes for the region, particularly concerning Iran and the "axis of resistance."
3. Iran's involvement in Syria began in response to the influx of foreign fighters and the rise of extremist groups like ISIS, which were facilitated by NATO countries and [Persian] Gulf monarchies.
4. Dr. Mandi emphasizes that Iran's primary concern was not to preserve Assad but to counter extremist groups threatening regional stability.
5. The current situation is seen as a significant setback for the resistance axis, which relied on Syrian territory to support Palestinian efforts.
6. The rise of al-Qaeda in Syria poses challenges, as its leaders have shown no intention of confronting Israel, which has targeted Syrian military infrastructure with little resistance.
7. The developments have shifted the balance of power in favor of Israel and its allies, complicating dynamics for Iran and its allies in the region.
8. The conversation touches on the ongoing geopolitical situation involving Hezbollah, Iran, and the resistance against Israeli occupation, with Hezbollah's military infrastructure remaining intact despite challenges.
9. The speaker expresses skepticism about the ability of extremist groups with ties to ISIS and al-Qaeda to effectively govern or maintain cohesion due to their history of infighting.
10. The discussion also highlights the hypocrisy of the U.S. and its allies regarding human rights, particularly in the context of the Syrian dictatorship and the ongoing situation in Gaza.

Introduction to the Podcast

- [Mnar Adley], the founder and director of Mint Press News, introduces the podcast titled The Mint Cast.
- [She] highlights the rapid developments in Syria, mentioning the fall of Assad and the rise of Abu Muhammad Al-Julani's power.
- The podcast aims to explore the implications of these events on the region and the access of resistance.

**Correction per Dr. Mohammad Marandi:**

- 1:01 just one thing I'm not an adviser I was a media advisor to the nuclear
- 1:07 negotiating team in 2015 and two three years ago]

Guest Introduction

- Professor Dr. Muhammad Mandi, a professor and former media advisor to the [Nuclear Negotiating team in 2015 and two three years ago], joins the discussion to provide insights from a Syrian perspective.
- He discusses the implications of Assad's fall and the rise of HTS (Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham) for Iran and the access of resistance.


The Fall of Assad and Its Implications

- Dr. Mandi reflects on the events leading to Assad's downfall, noting the involvement of foreign fighters and the role of various countries in facilitating extremism in Syria.
- He emphasizes that the rise of HTS represents a significant setback for the resistance axis, particularly for Iran and Russia.
- The podcast discusses how the Israeli regime has gained a stronger position in the region due to the instability in Syria.

Iran's Concerns and Response

- Dr. Mandi explains Iran's long-standing concerns about the rise of extremist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS in Syria, which are perceived as threats to regional stability.
- He notes that Iran's involvement in Syria began in response to the increasing number of foreign fighters and the need to combat extremist ideologies.
- The discussion highlights Iran's expectation that Israel and the U.S. would take credit for the changes happening in Syria.

Challenges for the Resistance Axis

- The conversation addresses the challenges faced by the resistance axis, particularly the loss of Syrian territory, which was crucial for supporting Palestinian resistance.
- Dr. Mandi points out that the current leadership in Syria under HTS is not inclined to confront Israel, complicating the dynamics for the resistance movement.
- He discusses the implications of the Israeli military's actions in Syria and the lack of response from the current Syrian leadership.

Future of the Resistance Axis

- Amid discussions of doom and gloom regarding the resistance axis, Dr. Mandi argues that it is premature to declare its end, suggesting that it may adapt and reorganize.
- He believes that Hezbollah and other groups will learn from their experiences and emerge stronger despite the current setbacks.
- The conversation emphasizes the importance of public perception of Zionism and the ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza as factors that could unify resistance efforts.

Iran's Position and Assad's Mistakes

- Dr. Mandi reflects on the relationship between Iran and Assad, noting that Iran had urged the Syrian government to be more responsive to civil society's needs.
- He discusses the impact of U.S. sanctions on Syria, which have exacerbated the country's economic situation and contributed to public discontent against Assad.
- Dr. Mandi identifies key mistakes made by Assad, including the widening gap between the elite and ordinary Syrians, and the government's harsh treatment of opposition.

Western Intervention and Its Consequences

- The podcast critiques Western intervention in Syria, comparing it to similar interventions in other countries like Libya and Iraq.
- Dr. Mandi argues that the narrative surrounding the Syrian conflict often overlooks the role of foreign powers in destabilizing the region.
- He emphasizes that the humanitarian crises in Syria are largely a result of external sanctions and interventions rather than solely the actions of the Syrian government.

Future Dynamics in the Region

- The conversation shifts to the potential for future conflicts involving Iran, especially concerning the rise of extremist groups and their implications for regional stability.
- Dr. Mandi expresses concern about the possibility of these groups launching attacks against Iran, given their stated animosity towards the country.
- He warns that the instability in Syria could lead to broader regional consequences, including increased refugee flows to Europe and heightened tensions between various countries.

Conclusion and Future Discussions

- The podcast concludes with a reflection on the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations and the potential for future conflicts involving both countries.
- Dr. Mandi suggests that the situation in the region will continue to evolve, with various players attempting to navigate the changing dynamics.
- The host expresses a desire to continue the discussion in future episodes, focusing on U.S. foreign policy and its impact on Iran and the broader region.

MintPress director Mnar Adley hosts a discussion regarding al-Qaeda's rise in Syria with Tehran University professor Dr. Mohammed Marandi . What does the rise of Al-Qaeda mean for Syria, liberation of Palestine, the axis of resistance and the region moving forward. Is the resistance doomed? Or is this just another speed bump in their path forward.