Iraq’s Maliki Brands Turkey “Hostile State”
Iraq’s premier says his Turkish counterpart seeks “hegemony” in the Middle East.
Asia
Gulf States Caught in Middle of Iranian-Saudi Cold War
Threatened by Iran, smaller Arab Gulf states are driven into Saudi Arabia’s arms.
Vietnam, United States Announce Military Drills
Days after a Sino-Philippine standoff, Vietnam invites the United States for military exercises.
Violence Subdues in Syria, But Peace Plan Not in Place
The ceasefire has cut civilian casualties but Assad is still violating the Annan agreement.
Republican McCain Urges Obama to “Lead” in Syria
The Republican senator argues the United States should spearhead efforts to remove Assad.
Did China Win the Day in Navy Standoff?
China and the Philippines appear to have diffused a crisis in the South China Sea.
Kim Jong-un Is Indispensable to North Korean Regime
The regime needs the third Kim to maintain its legitimacy.
Chinese-Philippine Standoff in South China Sea
The Philippines dispatch more ships to a disputed shoal where they attempted to arrest Chinese fishermen.
Relations with Iran Key to Solving Afghanistan
Iranian mischief in Afghanistan is defensive. It needs to change to end the war successfully.
Japan Ready to Shoot Down North Korean Missile
Tokyo has activated its early warning radar system in anticipation of a satellite launch.
Singh, Zardari Discuss Kashmir, Terrorist Dispute
Although they made no concrete progress, at least the leaders of India and Pakistan are talking.
Kofi Annan’s Mission Impossible in Syria
International support for his peace plan is just as important for Kofi Annan as the plan itself.
The Futility of Talking to the Taliban, For Now
Neither the Taliban nor the United States stand to gain from resuming peace negotiations.
Eurofighter: The Great German Backstab
Did Germany lobby to deny Britain a major defense procurement deal with India?
BRICS Can Bark But Cannot Bite
If the organization turns into a conduit for Chinese foreign policy, the remaining members will have to consider alternatives.