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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.
Arguments Open in Philippine Case Against China's South China Sea Claims
By Shannon Tiezzi
After winning a victory on the issue of jurisdiction, Manila moves to arguments about the merits of its case.
Ever Wonder How China Got Back Into International Diplomacy After the Cultural Revolution?
By Robert Farley
China's successful entry into the international scene after the Cultural Revolution bears lessons for other pariah states.
US Cyber Command’s Veiled Threat: China ‘Vulnerable’ in Cyberspace
By Franz-Stefan Gady
U.S. Admiral Mike Rogers hints at retaliatory cyber strikes should China continue malicious hacks.
Military Facilities Aren't Militarization in the South China Sea: Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister
By Ankit Panda
What does China mean when it speaks about militarization in the South China Sea?
Next US Navy South China Sea Freedom of Navigation Operation: Mischief Reef
By Ankit Panda
The U.S. Navy will likely sail within 12 nautical miles of Mischief Reef soon.
China is on ‘High Alert’ for Japan’s ‘Intervention’ in South China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
Abe says Japan would consider patrols in the South China Sea, China isn't too happy about the suggestion.
India Approves Security Pacts With Germany
By Ankit Panda
India and Germany make moves, Iran's nuke deal implementation, and resolve in the South China Sea. Security updates.
Is Justin Trudeau Going to Rethink Canda's Approach to the Asia-Pacific?
By Robert Farley
Canada has always been interested in the Asia-Pacific, but its new government may change its approach.
The Myth of a ‘Strategic Imbalance’ in the South China Sea
By Greg Austin
As Australia focuses on China's perceived advantages in the SCS, it's worth taking a closer look at that narrative.
Debating Freedom of Navigation Operations in the South China Sea
By Sam Bateman
Continuing the debate on the value of U.S. FONOPs, Sam Bateman responds.
Who Is Really Overstepping the Bounds of International Law in the South China Sea?
By Allen Yu
Why the recent ruling from The Hague on jurisdiction is hardly a victory for the Philippines.
Gunboat Diplomacy in the South China Sea
By Kun-Chin Lin and Andrés Villar Gertner
We’re entering a new phase in political signaling by China and the U.S.