In this edition of Intel Insights, Leighton discusses the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas, providing background information on the situation and analyzing the factors that led to the attack. He explains how Hamas meticulously planned the attack, using various weapons and tactics to target Israeli locations. Leighton also highlights the intelligence failures on the part of Israel, which resulted in a significant number of casualties and hostages. He delves into the history and ideology of Hamas, as well as the complex dynamics in the Middle East involving Iran, Hezbollah, and other regional actors. Leighton emphasizes the potential for a wider war and the challenges Israel faces in addressing the crisis in Gaza while avoiding a protracted conflict.

Episode Timestamps:

• Overview of the planning and tactics used by Hamas in their attack on Israel {01:30}
• Background on Hamas and their goals to destroy Israel and establish an Islamic society {03:00}
• History of Gaza and its occupation by Israel and subsequent takeover by Hamas {05:15}
• Involvement of Iran in supporting both Hamas and Hezbollah {10:25}
• Deployment of US military forces to support Israel and the possibility of a wider war {14:30}
• Challenges in achieving a lasting peace in the Middle East {16:05}
• Potential consequences of a Hamas takeover {18:40}

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www.intelinsightspodcast.com 

In this edition of Intel Insights, Leighton discusses the recent plane crash that killed Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group, along with other top leaders. The cause of the crash is still unknown, but there are suspicions of an on-board explosion or sabotage. This incident highlights the instability in Russia, with recent dismissals of military leaders and challenges to Putin's power. The Wagner Group, a paramilitary organization, had been sanctioned by the West and played a significant role in conflicts in countries like Ukraine and Syria. Russia now faces uncertainty as it tries to fill the void left by the Wagner Group and maintain its influence in various regions.

Episode Timestamps:

• A plane crash that resulted in the presumed death of Yevgeny Prigohzin and other Wagner Group members {0:36}
• The instability of Russia after the decapitation of the Wagner Group {1:51}
• The Wagner Group’s popularity in other countries, and how that affected Putin and the Russian state {6:51}
• Putin’s plan to exact his revenge against Prigohzin after the rebellion in June 2023 {8:14}
• The type of man and leader Prigohzin was, and the support he was able to generate as a result of his ‘accomplishments’ {10:22}
• What is next for Russia {12:50}
• Dramatic changes that may occur on the battlefield for Russia {17:49}

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In this episode of Intel Insights, Leighton discusses the recent coup in Niger and its potential global repercussions. Niger, a resource-rich country in West Africa, is one of the poorest nations in the world. Its significant uranium reserves have attracted the interest of various countries, including China and France. The coup aims to address the country's decline and the perceived exploitation of its resources by foreign companies. The complex history of Niger, including colonial rule and ethnic tensions, has contributed to its current political situation. The coup has also raised concerns about the stability of the region and the impact on counterterrorism efforts. 

The United States and France have a military presence in Niger, but the coup has strained relations and raised questions about the effectiveness of their missions. The involvement of Russia and its proxy, the Wagner Group, adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as they seek to gain control over Niger's uranium reserves and challenge Western influence. The outcome of the coup and the scramble for resources in Niger will have significant implications for global markets and geopolitical dynamics.

Episode Timestamps:

• Why certain people are very interested in Niger right now {1:43}
• Increasing criticism and resentment surrounding the Areva and OranoCycle operations in Niger {6:19}
• The chaotic history of Niger, and how it came to be what it is today {8:09}
• The initial development of a military base by the U.S. in Agadez, Niger, and what has evolved since then {16:35}
• Assessing the current mission of the U.S. in Niger {18:43}
• The many ‘Russian flags’ showing up in Niger, which could lead to increased control of the uranium production there {21:50}

Connect with Cedric:

https://twitter.com/CedricLeighton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cedricleighton

www.intelinsightspodcast.com