Global Rivalries

The war against Iran could ultimately leave the United States in a worse strategic position than the one that existed before the conflict began.   Since February 28, when the United States launched its air campaign against Iran, analysts, governments, and media outlets worldwide have been asking the same question: what exactly is Washington trying to achieve?   Even inside Washington, the answer appears unclear. Nobody, not even Pre...

Oil tankers are beginning to crowd the waters near Singapore after dangerous conditions in the Strait of Hormuz slowed shipping across one of the world's most important oil routes. These ships carry millions of barrels of oil, and their sudden arrival in Southeast Asia is drawing attention from energy traders around the world.   The buildup follows weeks of tension in the Strait of Hormuz due to the US-Israel-Iran war. The Strait of H...

The United States issued a fresh warning about China’s rapidly growing navy. Analysts say that Beijing’s expanding fleet is reshaping the balance of power in the South China Sea and across the region. Concern is building in Washington, which is already busy with its war against Iran, that China may take advantage the global chaos to make moves in Southeast Asia.   Why Washington Is Concerned China now has the world’s lar...

The United States and South Korea have begun their annual Freedom Shield military drills, bringing thousands of troops together for large-scale training exercises across the Korean Peninsula. The drills, which will run until March 19, are designed to improve military coordination and readiness between the two allies.   In response, Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, warned that the exercises could incre...

As US sanctions tighten and oil shipments dry up, Cuba is sliding deeper into an energy and economic crisis. With President Donald Trump suggesting the island could be the next for US military action, the question is whether the increasing pressure will trigger political change in the country or simple increase its instability.   A New US Strategy to Squeeze Cuba’s Energy Lifeline President Donald Trump has suggested that Cuba could...