Syria Audio Analysis: Swapping 2130 Civilian Prisoners for 48 Iranian "Pilgrims" --- Scott Lucas with Monocle 24

Some of the released Iranians at a Damascus hotel today

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I spoke this evening with Monocle 24's Midori House about the surprising news of the release of 2130 civilians in Syrian jails in exchange for the freeing of 48 Iranian men held by insurgents.

While information is still sketchy on the motives for the deal, we discussed the possible calculations of the insurgents and the regime --- look, in particular, to President Assad trying to hold on to Iranian backing --- and to the possible consequences: will today's development bring any significant change in the political and military situation? (Probably not.)

The item begins at the 4:58 mark. My contribution starts at 7:26.