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Flashpoints

Will China’s military rival the United States’ in the Pacific? Will Japan abandon the constitutional fetters on its own military? How will India respond to the String of Pearls strategy? The Diplomat has put together a team of leading analysts to offer must-read, regular commentary on the big defense and security issues in the Asia-Pacific.

North Korea Resumes Missile Tests, Raising Tensions With Rivals After Military Drills End

North Korea Resumes Missile Tests, Raising Tensions With Rivals After Military Drills End

By Hyung-jin Kim and Mari Yamaguchi
The launches came after South Korean-U.S. military drills concluded and as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Seoul for a democracy summit.

No, Japan Will Not Defend Taiwan

No, Japan Will Not Defend Taiwan

By Zhuoran Li
Whatever the Kishida administration might want, there are still strong domestic constraints to the country taking part in any conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
China and India’s Intense Contest for Influence

China and India’s Intense Contest for Influence

By Jabin T. Jacob
India has kept a close watch on China’s activities and responded strongly where its security was directly affected.

What’s in the US Intelligence Community’s 2024 Annual Threat Assessment?

What’s in the US Intelligence Community’s 2024 Annual Threat Assessment?

By Catherine Putz
China, Russia, and the usual suspects feature heavily in a tangled web of threats perceived by the U.S. intelligence community that range across the globe.

Sweden Joins NATO: Implications for the Indo-Pacific

Sweden Joins NATO: Implications for the Indo-Pacific

By Jagannath Panda and Mahima Duggal
As NATO looks eastward with an eye on China, Sweden’s accession will also impact Indo-Pacific countries.

Once Again, Concerns Arise About China-Pakistan WMD Nexus

Once Again, Concerns Arise About China-Pakistan WMD Nexus

By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
Indian customs officials reportedly intercepted a Malta-flagged merchant ship carrying a computer numerical control machine en route from China to Pakistan.

India Is Embracing a ‘Net Security Provider’ Role in the Indian Ocean Region

India Is Embracing a ‘Net Security Provider’ Role in the Indian Ocean Region

By Samir Bhattacharya
New infrastructure built by India in Mauritius demonstrates New Delhi's commitment to cementing its security presence in the IOR.
Will Myanmar Become the Next North Korea?

Will Myanmar Become the Next North Korea?

By Jong Min Lee
A recent indictment resurrects longstanding concerns about nuclear proliferation in Myanmar, with the complicating factor of an ongoing civil war.

The Quad: Can This Democratic Coalition Bolster Global Health Security?

The Quad: Can This Democratic Coalition Bolster Global Health Security?

By Vivek N.D.
As the world navigates an increasingly complex health security landscape, the Quad presents an opportunity for collaboration. 

Raisina 2024 Report: India Plays in Both Global South and Indo-Pacific Arenas

Raisina 2024 Report: India Plays in Both Global South and Indo-Pacific Arenas

By Sarang Shidore
The conference was clearly less star-studded than last year but served an assorted menu of animated conversations.

In a Crisis, Could China Coerce Taiwan Through Cyberspace?

In a Crisis, Could China Coerce Taiwan Through Cyberspace?

By Seamus Boyle
It’s important to understand China’s approach to offensive cyber operations in a potential Taiwan Strait crisis falling below the threshold of war.
Will Kim Jong Un Meet With Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida?

Will Kim Jong Un Meet With Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida?

By Mitch Shin
Amid the stalled nuclear talks between the U.S. and North Korea, Japan seeks to hold a summit meeting with North Korea.

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