Quil Lawrence

Quil Lawrence, an NPR veterans affairs correspondent, brings keen insights into a critical meeting of military leaders at Quantico. He discusses Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth's agenda and the implications of stricter combat standards for women. Aya Batrawy, an international correspondent, delves into the intricacies of Trump's controversial Gaza peace plan, exploring why Hamas may accept or reject it. Both guests highlight skepticism from Qatar and other regional players, shedding light on the complex web of military and diplomatic strategies at play.

Quill Lawrence, NPR's veterans correspondent and former Kabul bureau chief, offers a deep dive into the chaos of the Afghanistan evacuation. He shares the heart-wrenching stories of American veterans who worry for their Afghan allies left behind as the Taliban takes control. The conversation highlights the treacherous conditions at Taliban checkpoints, the emotional toll on those who served, and the looming political ramifications of the U.S. withdrawal. Lawrence's firsthand insights shed light on a pivotal moment in history, underscoring the urgency of these evacuees' plight.

Ishmael Khan, an Afghan interpreter who bravely served with U.S. Army Special Forces, shares his harrowing escape and the grave risks faced by allies left behind as the Taliban surges. Quill Lawrence, a seasoned NPR correspondent, discusses the moral crisis of abandoning these crucial allies. They delve into the arduous immigration process for Afghan nationals, the emotional toll of separation from family, and the tangled web of loyalty and sacrifice experienced by those who dedicated their lives to supporting American forces.