Why does Lebanon seem trapped in a cycle of political paralysis, foreign interference, and violence? In this episode, Rabbi Pesach Wolicki and Pastor Doug Reed step back from the headlines to explore the deeper story behind Lebanon’s ongoing crisis. From the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the creation of Lebanon’s unique political system to the rise of Hezbollah and Iran’s growing influence, they explain how a century of decisions has produced one of the Middle East’s most dysfunctional states. Along the way, Doug shares stories from his travels across America, including an unexpected conversation about Israel with a former Major League Baseball All-Star. The result is a wide-ranging discussion about history, geopolitics, faith, and why understanding Lebanon is essential to understanding the modern Middle East.