Welcome to The Geopolitical Compass: AI Unpacked! In this episode, we uncover how empires, particularly the U.S., exploit sectarianism to maintain control in the Middle East, erasing pluralism and fueling conflict.

This podcast is based on the article "The Weaponization of Sectarianism_ How Empire Erases Pluralism to Rule the Middle East." We explore the historical roots of this strategy, its devastating impact on Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine, and the global resistance emerging to defend pluralism.

Part 1: Divide and Conquer

• The Strategy: Empires use religious and ethnic divisions to weaken resistance and consolidate power.
• Historical Examples: The British Empire's tactics in India and the Middle East.

Part 2: The Assault on Pluralism

• The Value of Pluralism: Allowing diverse cultures and religions to coexist peacefully is essential for a harmonious society.
• The Levant's Legacy: The historical model of coexistence between Christians, Muslims, and Jews is under attack.

Part 3: The Geopolitics of Erasing Pluralism

• Zionism and Salafism: These ideologies, backed by the U.S., seek to homogenize the region, fueling sectarian violence.
• The "Clean Break" Doctrine: Israel's strategy to destabilize Syria and Lebanon to ensure its dominance.

Part 4: The Human Cost

• Aleppo: The destruction of a once-vibrant city, where Salafist rule has replaced pluralism.
• Gaza: The ongoing genocide against Palestinians, erasing their culture and identity.
• Lebanon: Facing pressure from both Salafist and Zionist forces, risking further destabilization.

Part 5: Global Resistance

• The Levant's Importance: Its fate is a microcosm of the global struggle between authoritarianism and diversity.
• Iran and Hezbollah: Leading the resistance against sectarian domination and defending pluralism.
• Grassroots Movements: BDS and other campaigns challenging the forces erasing pluralism.

Part 6: The Fight for Diversity

• The Levant's Mosaic: Rebuilding a region shattered by imperial forces is a global imperative.

The Spirit of Resistance: Challenging the destruction of pluralism and defending human dignity.