Part 3/10:
One of the most expansive and controversial operations launched by the CIA in recent history is known as Operation Timber Sycamore. Initiated in 2012, this was the largest CIA covert weapons and training program of the 21st century. It began when Simon Chase, a former British special forces operator, was contacted to assist in arming the Free Syrian Army. Chase and his team were tasked with gathering intelligence on the rebels' needs for operational support and munitions while ensuring that their involvement remained hidden from public scrutiny.