New Syrian opposition gains some diplomatic support, US embrace still absent

By Paul Mutter The Syrian National Coalition, formed in Qatar last week through a US-led international initiative, has gained two important diplomatic victories in the past few days. NATO member Turkey has formally recognized the body as Syria’s legitimate government,… Continue Reading →

Continued US Support for Israeli Bombing of Gaza Bodes Ill for Obama’s Second Term

It’s a most unwelcome feeling of déjà vu which must settle over any observer of the Israel-Palestine conflict and the US role in it. An escalation is seen in the woefully asymmetric exchange of fire between Israel and the Gaza… Continue Reading →

No changes in Iran-US relations expected until after Iranian election

This week Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton indicated they wanted talks with Iran to resume even as the US’s dual-track policy of pressure and diplomacy (translation: more sanctions) continues: HIGH REPRESENTATIVE ASHTON: As you know, in New… Continue Reading →

“When is a cyberattack an act of war?”

The Washington Post’s Ellen Nakashima examines the question of what constitutes war if the trigger point originates in cyberspace: Deciding what amounts to an act of war is more a political judgment than a military or legal one. International law avoids the phrase… Continue Reading →

Obama Aides Launch Preemptive Attack on New Iran Plan

via IPS News Although the place and time of the next round of talks on Iran’s nuclear programme have not yet been announced, the manoeuvring by Iran and the United States to influence the outcome has already begun. Iran sought… Continue Reading →