Idrees Ali

Idrees Ali, a national security correspondent for Reuters, shares his insights on a peculiar gathering of military leaders at Quantico. He critiques Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's emphasis on grooming and his controversial remarks on diversity. Ali discusses Trump's suggestion to deploy troops in American cities, the risks of eroding public trust in the military, and the Pentagon's shift in focus towards the Western Hemisphere. The conversation also touches on press access challenges and the climate of uncertainty within military leadership.

Join Pentagon reporters Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart as they dive into the upheaval at the Pentagon under a new defense secretary. Ali, who covers defense and national security, and Stewart, a specialist in U.S. military reporting, discuss the controversial staff cuts that have sparked fear and skepticism among military insiders. They explore the challenges of enhancing strategic readiness amidst chaos and the potential impact on military operations, revealing concerns over readiness for future crises in an unpredictable world.

Idrees Ali, a national security correspondent for Reuters, dives into recent developments at the Pentagon and the peculiar gathering at Quantico. He discusses Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's unusual focus on military grooming and fitness alongside his controversial views on diversity and inclusion. Ali also explores the implications of Trump's remarks on using the military for domestic policing and the potential shift in U.S. military focus toward the Southern Hemisphere. The conversation highlights critical issues of trust, reporting access, and accountability within the military.