MIDEAST STRIFE
Iran-Pakistan flare-up rooted in restive borderlands, not Mideast strife
Iran's recent strike on Pakistan aimed to bolster internal security amid rising concerns about domestic militant threats, not Middle East ambitions. The exchange of attacks between the two nations centered on borderlands where separatist and Islamist groups have long operated. The trigger was a Jan. 3 bombing in Kerman, prompting Iran to demonstrate its security capabilities. While regional tensions are high, both countries emphasize that their attacks weren't directed at each other's nationals, signaling a desire to avoid further escalation. Diplomacy, potentially involving third-party mediation, is seen as critical for de-escalation.
Donald Trump's presidency not just a blip in US foreign policy
Biden, who said last month that "America's back, ready to lead the world, not retreat from it," might strive to be the antithesis of Trump on the world stage and reverse some, if not many, of his predecessor's actions. But Trump's imprint on America's place in the world - viewed as good or bad - will not be easily erased.
US Senate panel releases 13 videos of Syria chemical attack
A US Senate intelligence panel has released 13 videos showing images of the chemical attack in Syria allegedly carried out by President Assad's regime.
All Indians to be evacuated from Libya by Mar 10: Govt
To a member's remark that China had completed their evacuation exercise much before India could do so, she said China had not issued any official figure.
Mideast leaders in Japan for peace talks
Senior officials from Israel, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority were due Wednesday to hold peace talks in Tokyo, in Japan's latest bid to expand its role in the region.
