On drones, Brennan insisted that the president always acts legally—as defined by his own lawyers, that is—when ordering strikes against suspected terrorists.
Foreign Policy
Both Barrels
With sequestration three weeks away, Pentagon nerves are fraying.
COIN and Change
My latest print column: John McCain’s ugly cross-examination of Chuck Hagel raised some larger questions about US policy.
Why John Brennan’s Confirmation Hearing May Not Be High Drama
The most anticipated confirmation hearing in recent memory may end up being among the least satisfying
Shoe Thrown at Iran President in Cairo
Ahmadinejad is the first Iranian President to visit Egypt since Tehran’s 1979 Islamic revolution.
The U.S. Dismantles in Afghanistan: Lessons from a Logistical Nightmare
After dismantling and repatriating the U.S. presence in Afghanistan, the guidelines for the next war – or humanitarian catastrophe, will be more clear.
John Kerry’s Great Adventure
Freed from any more elections or politics, Kerry’s diving into the State Department like a gleeful kid in a candy shop.
Just Who Do They Represent? At Hagel Hearing, Concern for Israel Tops U.S. Troops in Combat
Battleland contributor Brandon Friedman argues that Chuck Hagel’s confirmation hearing to become the next Secretary of Defense posed a perfect time to discuss the future of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the fate of U.S. troops …
Iran-US Talks: Path to Peace or Confidence Game?
Iran says it’s ready for talks—at last. But as the U.S. gears up for what could be a last chance to avoid a war, can anyone believe Tehran?
Fatal Blast Near U.S. Embassy in Turkey
A suicide bomber detonated an explosive device in Ankara, Turkey right outside the U.S. embassy, killing himself and an embassy guard. UPDATE: White House responds, calling it “an act of terror.”
U.S. Purchases Fuel for Afghanistan, Possibly Undermines Own Iran Oil Sanctions
A new report shows that America did not have a method for accurately sourcing at least a billion dollars worth of fuel purchased by America for Afghanistan’s Army and security forces. Policy changes were undertaken in November.
Kerry Confirmed as Secretary of State as Global Crises Escalate
Senator Kerry will enter office as hotspots flare up in Syria, northwestern Africa, Egypt, and Iran.
Women in Combat: Vive a Différence
Men and women differ from each other in peace, so it should come as no surprise that they’ll likely differ in combat, as well.