Ideas
The Americans Who Volunteer to Fight ISIS
'A lot of people come over here thinking they’re going to be Rambo. It’s not like that.'
Ideas
Want Peace in Syria? Put Women at the Negotiating Table
That’s what the Balkan experience tells us, say current and former British and US ambassadors.
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Here's Why the UN Sat on Its Hands During 5 Years of War in Syria
The 'great power' origins and recent deadly failings of the power of veto inside the U.N. Security Council.
Ideas
The Arab Spring's Aftermath, in 7 Minutes
A look at where Libya, Syria, Egypt, Yemen, Bahrain, and Tunisia stand now.
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That 'Wasteful' Task Force? You're Not Getting the Full Story
In Afghanistan, the Pentagon’s Task Force for Business and Stability Operations fostered helpful investment — and pioneered an essential component of future missions.
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How ISIS Appeals to Converts — and Ex-Criminals
Understanding both sides is key to figuring out how to slow recruitment.
Ideas
The Intelligence Community Must Remove Barriers to Minority Recruitment
National security demands a more diverse workforce to understand the world, but several things stand in the way.
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Drone Pilots Are Breaking the Old Definitions of Valor
Traditional notions of heroism don't always leave room for those U.S. troops engaged in high-tech, cutting edge warfare.
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We’re Long Overdue for Due Diligence in Defense
Defense Secretary Carter deserves applause for cutting the Navy’s LCS, and encouragement to think more broadly.
Ideas
The Diplomat-in-Chief Hits a National Security Trifecta
If Barack Obama were a Republican, Congress would have already named an airport after him.
Ideas
In an Era of Cheap Drones, US Can’t Afford Exquisite Weapons
Various technological advances are about to make hundred-drone swarms a reality, and a nightmare for today’s top-of-the-line weapons.
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Obama Is About To Launch A New Nuclear Arms Race. There’s a Better Way.
Despite his anti-nuclear words, the president is about to cave to the nuclear arms priesthood.
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Obama's Legacy: Limited Force, Limited Influence, Lingering Questions of What America Should Be
Obama’s long-view for the Middle East stands little chance of playing out as Americans — and events — cry for the U.S. to do more.
Ideas
The Right Way to Fight Boko Haram — and How the U.S. Should Help
Nigeria’s new president is wrong to separate his terrorism problem from his corruption problem.
Ideas
Meet the Air Force’s New Acquisition System
We’re creating a new way of developing, building and buying that works better for the service and the defense industry. Here’s how.
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China Is On A Collision Course with ISIS
Bejing’s ambitious plan to build links to central Asia and Europe will demand a better counter-terrorism policy.
Ideas
The Rise of Cyber Repression
When even the New York Times is open to tinkering with the First Amendment, it’s time to look at the way groups and governments are shaping our online society.
Ideas