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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.
China Hopes UN Meeting Spurs India-Pakistan Talks on Kashmir
By Associated Press
A UN Security Council meeting called by Beijing to address the Kashmir issue was held on Wednesday.
Russia Says US Indo-Pacific Strategy is to Contain China
By Associated Press
"Why do you need to call Asia-Pacific as Indo-Pacific? The answer is evident — to exclude China.”
Are China’s South China Sea Artificial Islands Militarily Significant and Useful?
By Ankit Panda
China's artificial islands are a symbol of its revisionism in the South China Sea, but they're also militarily significant.
US, Japan Hold Naval Exercise in East China Sea
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The January 13 exercise included a US F-35B carrying amphibious assault ship and a Japanese amphibious transport dock ship.
UK, France, Germany Invoke Iran Deal Dispute Resolution Mechanism
By Ankit Panda
The decision follows warnings from the European countries amid Iran's steps to reduce compliance with the 2015 agreement.
Is Germany Considering Maritime Missions in Asia?
By Markus Kaim
Berlin may be considering a freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea. Here’s why that matters.
Recent Developments Surrounding the South China Sea
By Associated Press
A look at recent developments in the South China Sea, where China is pitted against smaller neighbors in multiple territorial disputes over islands, coral reefs and lagoons.
US Official Confirms Efforts to Restore Working-Level Talks With North Korea
By Ankit Panda
The Trump administration seeks a return to diplomacy with Kim Jong Un.
Explaining Singapore’s Interest in the F-35B
By Robert Farley
How significant will the addition of the F-35B to the Republic of Singapore Air Force's inventory be?
Has Russia’s Pivot to Asia Worked?
By Maria Shagina
Russia’s pivot to Asia is instrumental for offsetting Western sanctions.
US Deploys 6 B-52 Stratofortress Bombers to Indian Ocean Island
By Franz-Stefan Gady
The United States Air Force is sending B-52 bombers to Diego Garcia, which could be used for operations against Iran if ordered.
Iran Crisis: US Braces for Tehran’s Military Response
By Associated Press
U.S. officials are bracing for Iran to respond to the killing of its most powerful general.