We're joined by Firas Maksad for Episode 27 of The Beirut Banyan, and we get a sober view from Washington on where the uprising in Beirut may take us.

Firas is an adjunct professor at George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, and regularly contributes to various outlets on Middle East politics, including Foreign Policy. Check out his recent piece on the events that led to the current uprising:

https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/10/21/lebanon-sectarian-protests-forest-fires-self-immolation/

In this episode, Firas offers perspective on the dire economic situation in Lebanon, and what is at stake in order to avoid complete financial meltdown. He also shares his analysis on the political calculations of domestic parties in light of street protests, and who stands to gain from potential reshuffling within the Lebanese state.

If you're enjoying these episodes, help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing to our Patreon page:

https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan

And subscribe to our podcast from your preferred podcast platform.

Follow us on Instagram: thebeirutbanyan

Twitter: beirut_banyan

Facebook: The Beirut Banyan

Website: www.beirutbanyan.com

Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.