Shadi Hamid

Shadi Hamid, a Washington Post columnist focused on U.S. politics, and Jeremy W. Peters, a National reporter for The New York Times specializing in free speech, dissect the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's killing. They discuss how influential Republicans are using grief for political gain while undermining democratic norms. Hamid highlights the jarring contrast between Kirk’s widow’s forgiveness and Trump’s aggressive rhetoric. They also explore the implications of zero-sum politics and the need for a national dialogue to strengthen democracy and free speech.

Shabnam Nasimi, a British-Afghan activist dedicated to Afghan rights, shares her emotional turmoil to see the Taliban regain power. Shadi Hamid, a Brookings Institution fellow, discusses the broader geopolitical fallout of the U.S. withdrawal, raising concerns about America’s commitment to global leadership. Jeremy Bowen, the BBC’s Middle East editor, examines how this impacts international relations, particularly with allies like the EU and Taiwan. The conversation reflects on urgent action for Afghan refugees, emphasizing the need for ongoing global support amidst rising despair.

Alan Dershowitz, Professor Emeritus at Harvard Law School and a legal expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, joins Shadi Hamid from the Brookings Institution for an in-depth discussion on the recent violence in Israel and Gaza. They explore the historical context of the region, the rise of Hamas, and the plight of Palestinians post-1967. The conversation also touches on the humanitarian crisis, civilian casualties, and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, offering a nuanced look at pathways toward peace in a deeply divided region.