Sources & Methods

In this discussion, Greg Myre, an NPR correspondent in Tel Aviv, sheds light on the complex aftermath of the Gaza ceasefire, highlighting the interplay of local and international dynamics. Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, dives into the legalities of National Guard deployments and the implications for domestic security. They explore the challenges of disarming Hamas and the future governance of Gaza, along with the potential for federalizing National Guard troops amid civilian crises. Both guests provide a rich analysis of these pressing issues.

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.

David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst and novelist, shares insights from his unique background in spy fiction. He reveals how authentic CIA tradecraft informs his storytelling, creating a captivating blend of reality and fiction. McCloskey discusses the delicate balance of classified information and censorship through the CIA review board. He parallels real-life conflicts, specifically Israel-Iran tensions, with plot elements in his novel. His latest book dives into the complexities of the US-UK special relationship, hinting at an intriguing narrative on espionage.

Odette Yousef, NPR's domestic extremism correspondent, discusses the implications of the Antifa designation as a domestic terrorist organization. She explains how this label, while not legally binding, impacts political discourse and investigative reporting. The podcast also delves into the Pentagon's new press pass requirements, which could stifle journalistic freedom, reducing reporters to mere stenographers. Yousef highlights the chilling effects on sources and examines the decentralized nature of Antifa, raising questions about accountability and public perception.

Michele Kelemen, an NPR diplomatic correspondent, and Daniel Estrin, an NPR international correspondent based in Tel Aviv, dive into the complexities of global diplomacy during President Trump's recent U.K. visit. They explore the symbolism of the lavish welcome and its implications for U.S.-U.K. relations. Kelemen shares insights on the escalating conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, while Estrin describes the reactions of Israelis feeling increasingly isolated amidst international pressure. The discussion highlights the intricate interplay of foreign policy challenges facing these nations.

National security, unlocked. Each Thursday, host Mary Louise Kelly and a team of NPR correspondents discuss the biggest national security news of the week. With decades of reporting from battlefields and the halls of power, they bring you inside the Pentagon, State Department, and intelligence community to help you understand America's shifting role in the world, and how events in faraway places matter here at home. Additional episodes feature interviews with power players from the NatSec world -- current and former military officials, intelligence experts, diplomatic leaders, and more. Email the show at sourcesandmethods@npr.org. NPR+ supporters hear every episode sponsor-free and can access our complete archive. Learn more and support public media at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy