Ep 2. Charlie Rose - Husain Haqqani / Dennis Blair (May 3, 2011)

Charlie Rose is an American television host, who brings some of the most interesting and relevant personalities to his show. In season 5 episode 2, he interviews two distinguished guests- Husain Haqqani and Dennis Blair, who both served in the national security field under the Obama administration.

Husain Haqqani is a former Pakistani ambassador to the United States and a renowned author, who is known for his insights into the complex relations between America and Pakistan. During the interview, he discusses his book "Magnificent Delusions: Pakistan, the United States, and an Epic History of Misunderstanding," which chronicles the tumultuous history of United States-Pakistan relations. Haqqani shares his perspective on the root causes of misunderstandings between the two countries, the role of Pakistan's military in its political affairs, and how to navigate the current challenges facing the region.

Dennis Blair, on the other hand, is a retired United States Navy admiral who served as Director of National Intelligence under President Barack Obama. His interview offers a unique perspective from the American national security establishment on a range of issues. He discusses his experience coordinating the intelligence community during the killing of Osama bin Laden, and provides insight on critical foreign policy challenges faced by the Obama administration, such as the Arab Spring, the rise of China, and the Iran nuclear deal.

Throughout the episode, Charlie Rose expertly engages Haqqani and Blair in a dialogue that is informative, insightful, and nuanced. The interviews delve into the complexity of national security issues, highlighting the challenges faced by policymakers who are constantly navigating threats both domestic and abroad. The guests give their opinions on how to move forward, discussing their own experiences in their respective roles and sharing the lessons they have learned.

Overall, Charlie Rose season 5 episode 2 provides viewers with a thought-provoking and impactful conversation about the diverse and intricate set of issues that shape national security policy. With Haqqani and Blair's unique perspectives and Rose's adept interviewing skills, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationships that define the political landscape both in the United States and across the globe.