Topic: Washington Institute

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How will US retaliate against Iran for alleged assassination plot?

Military reprisal is justified, some analysts say. But initially the US is likely to take a diplomatic course, trying to further isolate Iran after its alleged role in an assassination plot on US soil.
Assad's speech may buy time, but not survival

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad gave his first speech in two months today, offering elections and reforms this summer in an apparent bid to secure the patience of Syria's silent majority.
Has Syria's peaceful uprising turned into an insurrection?

The Syrian regime's claims that 120 soldiers and security personnel were killed in Jisr al-Shughur over the weekend have intensified the debate over who is behind the uptick in armed resistance.
Iran sees threat to its clout amid Arab Spring

Iran's relationship with Syria gives it clout with a broad range of players. If Syria's regime collapses, so too could Iran's regional influence.
New Libya challenge: Qaddafi forces march on despite no-fly zone

The challenge for coalition forces in Libya is how to stop Qaddafi loyalists from attacking cities without harming civilians, a top US officer says. It is the classic dilemma of urban warfare.
What are pros and cons of a no-fly zone over Libya?

As some Congressional leaders urges military intervention in Libya, the Pentagon emphasizes the difficulty of implementing a no-fly zone or other proposed military solutions.
West Bank dispute: Palestinian leader gives peace talks one-week reprieve

One day after Israeli moratorium on settlements expires, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delays his decision on whether to quit the US-backed Middle East peace talks for one week.
Why FBI is following the money in Times Square bomb case

Three Pakistani men arrested Thursday in Massachusetts and Maine may have used an informal network known as hawala to channel funds to alleged Times Square bomber Faisal Shahzad, officials say. Counterterrorism efforts have made it increasingly difficult to transfer money by traditional means.
What's behind string of terror plots

Arrests in separate terror plots in Springfield, Ill., and Dallas Thursday followed the indictment of Najibullah Zazi for plotting an attack in New York. Experts say the cases highlight the danger of domestic terrorism.
Netanyahu says Israel ready for a Palestinian state – with conditions

But a future Palestine must be 'demilitarized,' and the Jewish settlements won't be halted, Israel's leader says.
The West should focus on North Africa

Making the Maghreb a development partner would promote human rights and reform.
Gazan civilians increasingly at risk in assault on Hamas

Israel may consider a 48-hour cease-fire with Hamas, but threatened a ground invasion if militant rockets didn't stop during a temporary truce.
U.S. shifts 'hearts and minds' fight

Instead of trying to explain America, it promotes alternatives to extremism.
Isolated Jenin opens to some cross-barrier traffic

Once a militant bastion, the West Bank city is now open to visits from Israeli Arabs. The move could help bolster the peace process and provide a much-needed economic boost.