Ep.232 (Video): Polarization with Heiko Wimmen

0:00 Intro 4:10 Main Stumbling Block 11:17 Long Term 18:25 Unstable State 26:26 Primary to Breakdown 36:31 Lebanese Position 45:05 Macron Approach 52:26 Immediate Strategy 58:41 State Monopoly 1:06:12 Unicorn We're with Heiko Wimmen for Episode 232 of The Beirut Banyan. Click to watch: https://youtu.be/2bhBuerTMQk We discuss the recent International Crisis Group briefing, "Avoiding Further Polarization in Lebanon" and reflect on the immediacy of avoiding state collapse. We also address wider issues of economic reform and debate the urgency of addressing sub-state weaponry. Our conversation includes a healthy exchange over Hezbollah's role in the deterioration of the Lebanese state, and a back and forth over expectations given continued political paralysis and a crippling financial crisis. Heiko Wimmen is the International Crisis Group Project Director for Iraq, Syria, Lebanon. The briefing referenced in this piece is accessible via the following link: https://www.crisisgroup.org/middle-east-north-africa/eastern-mediterranean/lebanon/b81-avoiding-further-polarisation-lebanon And the recommended earlier briefing mentioned by Heiko towards the end of the episode is available here: https://www.crisisgroup.org/middle-east-north-africa/eastern-mediterranean/lebanon/preventing-state-collapse-lebanon Help support The Beirut Banyan by contributing via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/walkbeirut Or donating through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/thebeirutbanyan Subscribe to our podcast from your preferred platform. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @thebeirutbanyan And check out our website: www.beirutbanyan.com Music by Marc Codsi. Graphics by Sara Tarhini.