Ideas

Announcing the Inaugural Defense One Summit

Defense One is gathering national security and defense leaders to discuss the future of U.S. global security responsibilities and power. By Kevin Baron

Threats

Cutting Egypt Aid Too Little, Too Late

Withholding some aid to the military while continuing other aid gives Egypt mixed messages about Washington's intentions. By Sara Sorcher

Threats

Why America Has to Work With Syria's Islamist Rebels

Washington's policymakers need to put the affiliation of Syria's rebel groups in the context of local politics. By Shadi Hamid

Science & Tech

Why America Wants Drones That Can Kill Without Humans

The U.S. wants smarter, more secure drones. But are lethal autonomous robots the answer? By Joshua Foust

Threats

Obama Is Changing the Way He Fights the War on Terror

The U.S. moved to capture militants in Libya and Somalia, rather than killing them. It may be better than drones, but it brings political risks. By Sara Sorcher

Ideas

America’s Longest War

America’s longest war has become its forgotten war. If there was ever a time to pay attention to Afghanistan, it’s now. By Stephanie Gaskell

Science & Tech

Pakistan's Solution to Terrorism: Ban Skype

A southern province in Pakistan is banning voice-messaging services for three months 'because terrorists are using them.' By Leo Mirani

Threats

Can Taliban Founder’s Release Spark Afghan Peace?

Pakistan released Taliban founder Mullah Baradar, as President Karzai requested. But does Baradar still have the clout to bring peace to Afghanistan? By Carmen Gentile

Threats

Is the Shutdown Making Us Vulnerable to a Cyber Attack?

With the federal government shut down, there's fewer staff to prevent a cyber attack. By Brittany Ballenstedt

Threats

New Report Says Russia, U.S. Must Do More to Prevent Nuclear Terrorism

A new report says Russia and the United States should work together to prevent terrorists from getting access to nuclear weapons. By Rachel Oswald

Threats

Dempsey: Syria Is a ‘Long-Term Issue’

Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey says the problems in Syria aren’t going to go away any time soon. By Stephanie Gaskell

Policy

Unwinding 34 Years of Sanctions on Iran Won't Be Easy

The current sanctions regime is a labyrinthine mix of laws, executive actions and involves many international actors. Easing them will be an arduous task for Obama. By Kaveh Waddell

Science & Tech

Why Britain's New Cyberwar Capabilities May Just Be Political Posturing

It'll be a while before London builds an army of hackers. For now, its just another proposal from Whitehall. By Leo Mirani

Threats

The Six Things That Will Determine Obama's Success With Iran

Obama has made a good start by speaking to Rouhani, but there are plenty of pitfalls on the road to peace. By David Rohde

Threats

Syrian Rebels Are Rejecting U.S. Strategy

The new rebel alliance formed under al-Nusra is a no-confidence vote in U.S. leadership. By James Kitfield

Threats

Lawmakers Urge the U.N. to Punish Cuba For North Korea Arms Deal

Members of Congress want to the United Nations to send a strong message to Cuba for a secret arms deal with North Korea. By Rachel Oswald

Ideas

Are IEDs Ever an Ethical Weapon on the Battlefield?

The world’s focus has been on chemical weapons use in Syria – but what about the homemade bombs that kill thousands of civilians across the globe? By David Small

Ideas

When Will the Media Stop Fueling the Angry Vet Narrative?

After the Navy Yard shooting, many media outlets were quick to point out the shooter’s military service, fueling the dangerous narrative that veterans are more prone to violence. By Alex Horton

Threats

Why Did Rouhani Say ‘No’ to Obama?

For decades, Iran has conducted secret negotiations with the United States, only to publically back off before a major diplomatic breakthrough. Rouhani's behavior at the United Nations was more of the same. By Michael Ledeen

Ideas

The Real Reason al-Shabab Attacked a Mall in Kenya

The violence was intended as a punishment for Kenya’s two-year military foray into Somalia, but plays into al Qaeda’s plans for a regional jihad. By Bronwyn Bruton