On this special episode, The New Arab Head of News Paul McLoughlin welcomes Syrian filmmaker-journalist Waad Al-Kateab, co-creator of the acclaimed documentary For Sama (98% on Rotten Tomatoes, Oscar and BAFTA nominated), and Syrian political scientist Azzam Al Kassir. They reflect on their personal journeys, their work and what the first anniversary of Bashar al-Assad’s fall means today. Their conversation weaves together frontline journalism and deep research to explore Syria’s past, its trauma and glimpses of hope.
![On the first anniversary of the pager attacks targeting Hezbollah members in Lebanon, survivors gathered in Ain El Mraiseh, northwest of downtown Beirut, in a show of resilience and defiance, 17 September 2025. [The New Arab]](/sites/default/files/styles/image_345x195/public/2025-09/photo%201.jpg?h=b576b492&itok=AWGjo-rd)
![Hundreds of thousands take to US streets to demonstrate for workers' rights. [Brooke Anderson/TNA]](/sites/default/files/styles/image_345x195/public/2025-09/540789010_1485105472915506_521537847556927590_n.jpg?h=ff8c3fa3&itok=mfKYjnvK)
