This Week in the Middle East with William Morris of the Next Century Foundation

What matters most in the eternal scheme of things? Spoiler alert: If you don´t want to know anything about the plot of the latest mission impossible movie read no further. But this podcast doesn´t reveal that much so you are probably OK.Each individual must answer that for himself but I would stand with the thought that what matters most of all is your relationship with society. Perhaps mass media gives an answer in the fictional character Luther Stickell's last words in the recent blockbuster, "Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning", written by Christopher McQuarrie who also co-wrote the screenplay for the film. The script delves into the nature of work and its impact. Luther concludes by saying, in the course of a closing monologue that could be a message to us all: “The world is still here and so are you . . . I hope, in time, you can see this life is not some quirk of fate. This was your calling. Your destiny. A destiny that touches every living thing. Like it or not, we are masters of our fate. Nothing is written. And our cause, however righteous, pales in comparison to the impact of our effect. Any hope for a better future comes from willing that future into being. A future reflecting the measure of good within ourselves. And all that is good inside us is measured by the good we do for others. We all share the same fate -- the same future. The sum of our infinite choices. One such future is built on kindness, trust, and mutual understanding, should we choose to accept it. Driving without question towards a light we cannot see. Not just for those we hold close, but for those we'll never meet.”Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

NCF Secretary General shares a few selected memories from a fact finding mission to Kashmir nearly forty years ago. And asks the question, what´s different? He makes a couple of simple suggestions for a better tomorrow.This is one for my cousin John Holton, who tells me I have not done enough podcasting lately.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

There are conflicting reports about Syrian Alawite girls being kidnapped and sold into slavery. There are also denials. You can make your own mind up. Meanwhile one thing is clear - there is little or no stability in Syria today.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

A message for Easter, and indeed for Passover which ends on Easter Day. This message is about a kind of code of honour, twelve commandments:1. Respond with care and power to the one that wounds you.2. Do not hurt or fight with gentle people.3. Care nothing for your life, nurture others with your concern. Weep less for yourself, spread joy selflessly, save your tears for another's tragedy.4. Remain silent, except to the truth.5. Promise nothing.6. Do not let your intellect become the slave of emotion. Let your emotions serve your intellect, as a powerful banked fire would serve a house. Be not angry.7. What you need, give away, and what you do not need, relinquish; surrender your possessions as if they were another's joy and your burden.8. Surrender your soul with love to the power of the Spirit of God.9. Tomorrow is God's. Yesterday is dead. Remember you are a child of today.10. Never permit anyone to trap you with fear, for fear is evil.11. Never trap yourself with pride, for pride is evil.12. Trust God always.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Whilst killings continue on the coast, Türkiye and Israel squabble about the control of the T4 base. And Dera goes its own way as a separate fiefdom.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

It's April, the Winter is over and fighting season is beginning. Donald Trump promised a solution within one day. But has he gone soft on Russia? Is he no longer capable of sorting Ukraine? By the way, the NCF submission to the UN on the Ukraine issue is on this link.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, talks to three voices from inside Syria: 1. Alawite 2. HTS 3. Secular And they all agree that President al-Sharaa a.k.a. Jolani is creating a monocracy, i.e. a dictatorship with absolutely no pretence at democracy but true one man rule.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, shares three perspectives. The first from a senior peacenik from Israel (nothing astonishing). The second from a senior advisor to US President Donald Trump (and that is astonishing). The third from a senior Gazan with a close relationship with Hamas (and that, in my view, is mind blowing).Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Since around 1 pm on Friday, there have been ongoing mass killings of the Alawites in Latakia, village by village, by HTS. Systematically killing the men and kidnapping the women. They now have Kardaha surrounded. So why is this happening?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Sudanese civil war between two warlords heading the Rapid Support Services (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) grinds on. But now the main group backing civilian rule has also split into two factions, whilst both the RSF and the SAF are trying to form rival governments. When will this end? Never. The British, the former colonial power, do nothing. And the Americans simply don't care. But could Donald Trump be persuaded to care?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The gossip doing the rounds in Damascus including, incredibly, the rumour that Syria may be taking Gazan refugees.I apologise for my habit of making minor errors. When I refer to the events of 17/18 December in my podcast I of course mean 7/8 December. Sorry about that - wmSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

A Lebanese cease fire was renewed on 18th February as part of the wedding gift from Donald Trump to his daughter who has married the son of a Lebanese-American businessman. What does this mean for Lebanon today? Does the country at last have a better future?An apology though: Just one small correction, Michel Aoun is the old president. The current one is called Joseph Aoun.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The new Syrian government looks like it will throw democracy out of the window. Meanwhile, as stability remains shaky, kidnappings grow Endemic. That said, life is returning to normal in central Damascus. However the Israeli invasion of the South continues apace and they are digging in for the long term - and Türkiye remains the main autocratic power.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William talks about what's going on in Israel today. And it's a complex mess. But to guide him through the maze he has relied on his friend Hillel Schenker, the co-editor of the Palestine-Israel Journal. For background supporting information on this and all William's podcasts check here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VazknY69hXFEBbJGn335Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

HTS withdraw from Latakia whilst back in Homs Alawites and Shiites get murdered. Meanwhile HTS tries to restore stability, in its way.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The inside story as regards what is happening in Syria at this moment in time including the confusing issue of the Russian base. The latest in a series based on inside information from William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Ukraine War continues unabated. President Trump failed to refer to it in his inaugural address. William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, has his own perspective. He says that in his inaugural address President Trump spoke about everything else other than Ukraine - including putting a man on Mars. Fixing Ukraine won't be any less easy. But he has promised to do it. So do it Mr Trump. And right quickly. You said you would. Do it this way says WilliamSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Staggering developments and insights into what is really going on from the Christian, Sunni and Allawite perspective. Plus the hidden truth about the seminal role of the State of Qatar in support of the overthrow of Bashar al AssadSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, suggests a radical new approach to the Gaza issue in regard to four issues:1. Recognition of the State of Palestine2. An arms embargo3. Targeted Reconstruction4. A new MadridIn the context of the first three, the actions of Britain and France matter. In the context of the last, the actions of America matter.In regard to all four, you - and me - we can make the difference.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

In Search of Peace - a Christmas Message for 2024 from William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, incorporating ten rules to live by:1. Try New Things2. Never Stop Learning3. Smile Often4. Be Kind and Stay Loyal5. Work hard, Dream big6. Say I love you7. Remember to keep honest8. Keep your promises9 Stay Calm and don't panic10. Break the rules sometimesIf want to make sure that the work of the Next Century Foundation continues please help us by giving a donation. Please donate hereSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Developments from the viewpoint of a Syrian Army Officer in Division Four as he sees all that he fought for collapse and a new era emerge from the ashes. Will it bring chaos, or dictatorship, or democracy, or the fragmentation of Syria, or subjection to the hegemony of Israel and / or Türkiye. William Morris of the Next Century Foundation relays this inside perspective.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., the Next Century Foundation's Secretary General, tells what a Christian Syrian Army officer from Division Four saw of the fall of Bashar al Assad and the events of the past few daysSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William has just returned from a week in the mountain city of Dohuk in Northern Iraq, where he met, at the Middle East Peace and Security Forum, some of Donald Trump's advisors. Meanwhile, the whole world has gone crazy, with Turkish sponsored extreme Islamist militia trying to overthrow Bashar al Assad and restart the Syrian civil war.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Donald Trump has promised to end the Ukraine war. He says he will do it before his inauguration which may be a step too far even for him. But in the new world of realpolitik, what price peace?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Donald Trump has been elected President of the United States of America. But what does that mean for Israel, and what does it mean for Gaza?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Sudanese Civil War has now passed its one-and-a-half year mark and shows no signs of slowing. Approximately 20,000 people have died, and the war has created the world's largest displacement crisis: over 13 million have been forced to flee their homes. Famine has been confirmed in North Darfur, and the rest of Sudan is facing severe food insecurity levels. Multiple severe crimes against humanity have occurred, including ethnic cleansing campaigns and widespread sexual violence against civilians.In August 2024, a peace initiative led by the United States and co-organised by Switzerland took place in Geneva, resulting in the announcement of the ALPS, or the alluiance for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in Sudan, which has since achieved a little positive action by reopening some humanitarian access routes.As a result, about 200 trucks managed to get through the Adré crossing into West Darfur, but struggled to reach the whole region. Sudan's finance minister, Gibril Ibrahim, has called for the crossing's closure. He accuses the RSF of using humanitarian convoys to bring in weapons. But Sudan's long and relatively uncontrolled border with Chad is being used to get weapons into Sudanese territory anyway. The RSF has controlled most of Khartoum ever since the war erupted in April 2023. On September the 26th, the SAF launched an offensive in attempts to retake the city. In doing so, they conducted summary executions on up to 70 young men between September 26th and October 2nd. The RSF increased its attacks in response, and just last week, the paramilitary group conducted a five-day attack in Al Gezira. Residents were indiscriminately shot at and were subject to sexual violence, while homes, markets, and farms were looted and set alight. According to the Sudanese doctor's union, at least 124 people were killed and 200 were injured, making it one of civil war's single-deadliest attacks.Both parties are securing more advanced weapons from international backers. In the past week the U.S. Treasury has sanctioned Mirghani Idris Suleiman, the SAF procurement chief and director of Sudan's Defense Industries System. The treasury cited Suleiman's role in securing Iranian drones and brokering a Russian port-for-weapons deal, which has allowed the SAF to intensify its conflict with the RSF. Last month, the Treasury targeted Algoney Hamdan Dagalo Musa, the RSF's procurement director and Hemedti's brother, for funneling weapons to the RSF.Hemedti recently made impassioned speech accusing Egypt of supplying war planes to the army. This is the first time that the RSF has publicly accused Egypt of being militarily involved.On the 21st of October, the RSF shot down an Ilyushin-76 cargo plane over North Darfur. The aircraft was breaching the international arms embargo on Darfur, which was recently extended to September 2025 by the UN Security Council. The aircraft was operating in support of the SAF. Alongside three Sudanese nationals, two Russians were among the dead on board the aircraft.Ultimately, no comprehensive plan for a cessation of hostilities has been drawn up, despite a cessation being one of the Geneva peace talk's objectives in August, and civilians remain hopelessly impacted by continued warfare. Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The two great bullies of the Middle East spar like innocent giants while the detritus of their hegemony lies in ruins. And America looks on, an impotent giant.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, reflects on the ongoing war between Israel and Lebanon and its consequences.Joint Military Exercises in the Red Sea Between Former Regional Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia: What Does This Mean?The joint military exercise reflects a deepening of the recent resumption of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. It signals that Middle East countries have lost confidence in the US. In April 2024 Iran and Saudi Arabia announced the restoration of diplomatic ties in Beijing. The joint military exercise signals further progress in this recent reconciliation. It also signals diminished regional trust in the credibility of the US – which has consistently failed to back its words with actions – reflecting a regional cooperative effort to strengthen security management in the Red Sea region. In the context of the current crisis in the Middle East, the joint exercise serves as a reminder to the international community that it should be more concerned with the will of the regional countries rather than on that of external major powers. This collaboration could pave the way for further dialogue and de-escalation of regional tensions.Iran wants to show that it can play a constructive role beyond its traditional alliances with groups like Hezbollah or the Houthis, particularly after Nasrallah's death, and may be using these drills to show off its naval power to Israel in this interim period before Israel's counterattack. Also, to show Israel that Iran is a key persuasive voice in the region to be able to conduct joint military exercises with its formal rival. The decision to perform the exercises and show off power is likely heightened by the tense wait for Israel's counterattack on Iran, which is set to come sometime before the US election day.The military exercises were also conducted alongside other countries, including Oman and Russia. The Kremlin wants to assert its presence to bolster its geopolitical influence in the region, particularly along the Red Sea (where it wants a port), and most likely to assert itself against US influence in the Middle East. But the exercises also point towards a desire for increased regional security and stability in the Middle East post-October 7, considering the large amounts of military support supplied to Israel by the West.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

With a full-scale war now virtually inevitable before the US elections, Biden has given Israel Thad Batteries (Terminal High Altitude Arial Defense Batteries) and the US military staff to operate them. What are the consequences? What will the nature of the war be? Is there any prospect for war avoidance?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Watch and weep as deaths mount in Lebanon - and for what sweet Jesus, for what?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Florence Morris who is running 7k to raise funds for the NCF talks about what the NCF actually isSupport the Show.Reflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Next Century Foundation has put together a report on action needed regarding the Gaza War from the new British government.Support the Show.Reflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Gaza war continues and Premier Netanyahu retains power and there is little prospect of change. But what if there were a new tomorrow? What then?Support the Show.Reflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Prayer is one of the common aspects of all religions. The form and verbal content of prayer may be different in some cases. Sufi Definition of prayer: Prayer is one of the ways of spiritual interaction with God.Prayer is an expression of love to return to God. "Prayer" is the essence of worship.Prayer means God, I love you.Prayer means that human is not alone.Prayer means God's door is open to everybody. Prayer, God hears his voice.Prayer means that God has given permission to human to talk to Him.Prayer means that when all doors are closed to human, God's door is open to him.Prayer means the spiritual connection of human to God. God hears the voice of the supplicant.True prayer is based on knowledge, love, purity, supplication, supplication, and desire to be close to God."Prayer" in the mystical view; It is beautiful, but not result oriented. "prayer"; It has intrinsic value.The beauty of "prayer" is manifested when it does not revolve around results. The success of prayer is the result of loving care and attention. Rumi said in the Mathnawi:This demand in us is also from your creation, to be freed from greed, O Lord, it is your gift.¬ (Rumi, Mathnawi, book1, verse 1241)این طلب در ما هـــم از ایجــــاد توست     رستن از بیـــــــداد یا رب، داد تــوست“All prayers from you, all answers from you”,(Rumi, M.B2, v694)هـــــــم دعا از تو اجابت هـــــــم ز تو     Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

This week Paul Gutteridge, Senior Fellow of the Next Century Foundation; Honorary Fellow, The Edward Cadbury Centre, Birmingham University; and a leading member of Initiatives of Change, UK gives us an Easter message in which he remembers the ideology of Frank Buchman, founder of the Moral Rearmament movement that subsequently evolved into Initiatives of ChangeSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Ramadan fast is concurrent with Lent this year. This is the second in a series of Ramadan reflections: William Morris LL.D. discusses the implications of forgiveness, sin, trespass and debt in this reflection for the Muslim month of Ramadan and the Christian fast of Lent.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

For Moslems it is Ramadan, for Christians it is Lent, and for Jews it is a time of reflection as we approach Passover. This comes from William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, and is rather longer than the usual podcast. In it he addresses the question of the nature of God, and the consequences of a belief in God. We hope you find it helpful, or at least interesting.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

On the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and the Red Sea and the confused international response with discussions on the political situation, international support, and potential future scenarios. The podcast emphasises the importance of peace negotiations and the need for continuous efforts toward peace. It also discusses the potential roles of China and Russia in mediating conflict.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

On the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with discussions on the political situation, international support, and potential future scenarios getting nowhere. The podcast emphasises the importance of peace negotiations and the need for continuous efforts toward peace. It also discusses the potential role of the international community in mediating the conflict, mired as it is in confusion.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with discussions on the political situation, international support, and potential future scenarios. The podcast emphasises the importance of peace negotiations and the need for continuous efforts toward peace. It also discusses the potential role of China in mediating the conflict.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The international force is being out in place to protect Israel as a consequence of the stalemate that is the Gaza War. And then what for Gaza?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D. reflects on our duty during the coming yearSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, shares a Christmas message and suggests that "We are Noah's Ark"Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

In this episode, we are discussing the ongoing situation in Gaza that demands urgent attention from the international community. The recent killing of three Israeli boys, who were held hostage, by the Israel Defense Forces has deeply saddened and shocked us. The manner in which these killings were carried out is not only disturbing but also inhumane. However, we firmly believe that forced depopulation of Gaza is not the solution.To move forward, we emphasize the need to reform the corrupt Palestinian Authority and establish a new administration for Palestine. We have identified two credible candidates for this pivotal role – Mohammed Dahlan and Marwan Barghouti. While the international community may lean towards Dahlan due to his lack of charisma, we believe that Barghouti, who enjoys the support of the Palestinians, would be a more suitable choice.Securing Barghouti's release from jail would require cooperation from both Israel and Hamas. It is essential for them to recognize the benefits that come with his involvement. While the possibility of Israel expanding the war and advancing into southern Lebanon seems unlikely, the threat of diseases and further destruction in Gaza is very real. The lack of access to clean drinking water and the destruction of critical infrastructure have exacerbated an already disastrous situation for the two and a half million people residing in Gaza. The reported death toll, which includes casualties from direct bombings and diseases, is likely underestimated.To improve the situation, we urgently call upon Israel and the global community to take action. It is high time for the establishment of a new Palestinian administration, the initiation of a peace process, and Israel's recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state. Any further delays will only prolong the suffering and misery endured by the people of Gaza.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

William Morris LL.D., Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation, examines the ongoing civil war in Sudan and prospects for peace between the RSF and the SAF.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

So you are not going to have an international force. And Israel won't stay. Nor can you get rid of the Gazans. So what then?Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Next Century Foundation Secretary General William Morris LL.D. reflects on the current Gaza War and suggests an imposed solution may be the only answer.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The delivery of the massive Storm Shadow cruise missile to Ukraine by Britain marks a seminal moment in the history of this grinding warSupport the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The Sudan war is bloody and brutal. Two great warlords slug it out for dominion. Chances that one or other can win outright are slim. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagolo, popularly known as Hemedti, the leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), compete with one another to exert control over Sudan. The NCF has a detailed blog on the subject. However, Next Century Foundation Secretary General gives his more personal take on the reasons for this latest in the long series of Sudan wars.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

Ramadan is over and this is a time of celebration and of feasting or "Eid". However much is not right with the world and we need to set aside our troubles to truly celebrate this brave new dawn.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

This year Ramadan, Passover and Easter all fall together. And we need above all else to find reasons to hope in this broken world. NCF Secretary General, William Morris shares a few thoughts in this message.Support the showReflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation