Quil Lawrence

Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, and Quil Lawrence, national security correspondent, dive into the controversies surrounding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. They discuss how Hegseth's use of Signal jeopardized U.S. operations by sharing classified strike plans. The hosts analyze the implications of his actions during recent strikes in Yemen and Venezuela, including legal concerns and command accountability. Insights into the Pentagon's oversight challenges and the potential fallout from these incidents add depth to the conversation.

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.