Security operations such as the Mosul offensive point to a slow improvement in Iraqi security force capabilities, but will not succeed in bringing long-term stability.
Olmert's political future and that of his party is now reliant entirely on the success of his diplomatic engagement with the Palestinians. The short-term reprieve granted by the Winograd Committee is just that.
The launch of an advanced Israeli satellite-based radar imaging system has altered the strategic balance with Iran and continues a dramatic shift in the Indo-Israeli defense relationship.
The potential for the politicization of the Lebanese military threatens one of the last girders supporting the creaking edifice of the post-Taif state.
The afterglow of Bahrain's first US presidential visit is likely to be short-lived as the ruling al-Khalifa family moves to counter sectarian unrest while seeking a modus vivendi with regional powers.
When the time comes, will the US and Israel accept a Fatah-Hamas detente and the latter's 10-year ceasefire offer and abide Hamas' control of the Gaza Strip?
A Pentagon announcement of over US$10 billion in potential Gulf arms sales has again highlighted the tensions and international power plays driving the regional arms race.
As Israeli and Palestinian negotiating teams prepare for January talks, the rapid unraveling of the traditional power centers of the Israeli settlement movement is creating a dangerous vacuum.
A new intelligence assessment has fundamentally shifted the foundations underpinning US policy on Iran. However, a fundamental policy shift appears unlikely.
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