Calculated Political Tension at China-India Mountain Border
China might be fueling the border dispute to discourage India’s assertive foreign policy.
Asia
Rising Sunni Discontent Test for Iraq’s Shia Premier
After more than two hundred deaths, the government in Baghdad has to act.
Neighbors, West Accuse Syria of Chemical Weapons Use
Syrian army forces might have repeatedly crossed the United States’ “red line.”
Pentagon Hopes Asian Allies Drive F-35’s Costs Down
The Defense Department plans to sell stealth fighters to Singapore and South Korea.
Reelected Hamas Leader Has Opportunity for Reconciliation
Khaled Mashal could use his restored authority to mend fences with Fataḥ in the West Bank.
American Middle East Arms Sales Send “Signal” to Iran
Defense secretary Chuck Hagel calls Iran “a real threat”.
Initiative to Restart Peace Talks Stalls over Israeli Objections
The Obama Administration again bangs its head against the wall of Middle East peace.
North Korea Offers Start Dialogue If Sanctions Lifted
Pyongyang says it is willing to resume dialogue if the allies end their threats of “nuclear war.”
Assad, Russia Warn West Against Backing Islamist Rebels
Syria’s president and his Russian ally point to Muslim extremists among the opposition.
North Korean Missile Threat Not Worth Risking War
North Korea’s provocations do not pose a security threat to the United States.
Kerry Could Revive 2002 Israeli-Palestinian Peace Plan
America’s new secretary of state takes another look at a decade-old peace plan.
Japan Prepares to Thwart North Korean Missile Strike
Japan deploys antimissile ships and Patriot batteries to defend against a possible attack.
India, Vietnam Emerging as China Alternatives
Export-driven businesses are struggling to stay in China when competitors emerge.
North Korea Prepares to Strike American Bases in Pacific
Kim Jong-un orders missiles on standby for strikes against American bases in the Pacific.
Taiwan’s Defense Review Consciously Vague
It would be unwise for the island to communicate its military plans to China.