Ideas
Why the New Arab Military Pact Isn't Worth The Ink It Was Written In
The plan drawn up yesterday by the Arab world’s military chiefs is unlikely to go any farther than the Cairo conference room where it was concocted.
Policy
What President Obama Thinks on Iraq, Iran and Israel
Obama speaks about the state of U.S. policy in the Middle East in a wide ranging interview with The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg.
Threats
A New Turkish-Saudi Thaw is Helping Rebels in Syria and Worrying Washington
Turkey and Saudi Arabia are finally working together to fight terrorism, and that’s good and bad news to the Obama administration.
Threats
Iraq Is Losing Control of the Nearly 100,000 Militiamen Enlisted To Fight ISIS
Almost three dozen Shiite militias have joined Iraq's fight against ISIS, a battle initially thought to be short-lived. As the militias extort from the population, the public's patience is wearing thin.
Ideas
It’s Time To Arm the Sunni Tribes
The United States must work with what partners it has available in Iraq, not fictitious ones it might prefer.
Threats
US Helicopter Shot at By Anti-ISIS Forces; Commander Blames Iran
No. 2 U.S. special operations commander in region says dumb rumor fueled by Quds Force leader is making the U.S. job in Iraq much harder.
Ideas
Ramadi is Only Part of the Problem With Iraq
The defeat at Ramadi should not have happened, but the war to save Iraq will be won in Mosul.
Threats
DoD Workers Want More of Everything In Fight Against ISIS, Except Ground Troops
Defense One/GBC Poll finds frustration but little appetite for boots on the ground.
Threats
The F-35 Won't Be Going To War Against ISIS Just Yet
The U.S. Marine Corps will declare its vertical-flight Joint Strike Fighter ready for war in July, but a top general says it’s unlikely the jets will head to Iraq any time soon.
Threats
Obama, Gulf Allies Enter 'New Era' of Arab Defense
The president committed the U.S. to defend regional governments worried about America's engagement with Iran.
Science & Tech
China May Be Selling Armed Drones to Jordan
Will the Wing Loong UAV soon be flying over Amman? Not if one congressman, and his largest campaign donor, have anything to do with it.
Threats
How the Air Campaign Against ISIS Is Changing, in Three Charts
Coalition forces are going after smaller targets in missions designed to support Iraqi forces.
Threats
The Middle East Has Four Minutes To Act If Iran Fires a Missile
The technology can stop the missile, but politics are getting in the way.
Ideas
The Best Way To Save Obama's Camp David Summit
U.S. and Arab leaders can launch a framework for security cooperation easily enough, but enduring success will require deeper thinking.
Threats
35 Years On, It’s Time to Extend the Carter Doctrine
The upcoming Camp David summit may produce a long-sought framework for security in the Middle East.
Business
US Allies Cleared to Buy Arms Worth $3.5 Billion
The State Department OKs two key missile deals for Pacific Rim nations, a million-plus mortar rounds for Iraqis fighting ISIS, and more.
Ideas
Iran’s Disingenuous Approach To Maritime Law
The illegal seizure of the Maersk Tigris illustrates Tehran’s desire to pick and choose what international rules it follows.
Threats
What’s the Difference Between ‘Accompanying’ and ‘Escorting’ a Ship?
When Pentagon officials announced that they would increase protection for U.S.-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, they also introduced a bit of confusion.
Threats
US Navy Accompanies First Four Ships Through Strait of Hormuz
DOD officials are coordinating with shipping companies.
Policy