Signs of new approach to Afghanistan
A request by military commanders for more troops will bring to a head a growing debate about the West’s purpose and strategy in Afghanistan. Allegations that the presidential election was rigged have seriously undermined current policy. There are indications of a new approach that will place less emphasis on combat while maintaining a commitment to empower Afghan leaders and train Afghan security forces, while putting the military focus on targeting al-Qaeda.
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Longest UK terror trial ends with convictions
The conviction of three men for planning al-Qaeda-sponsored bomb attacks on transatlantic airliners in 2006 was the culmination of the longest-running terrorism case in the United Kingdom. As well as shedding light on al-Qaeda’s ability to instigate terrorism, the trial raised issues about international cooperation and the use of intercepted communications as evidence.
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Regime change in Japan
The 54-year reign of the Liberal Democratic Party came to an end with the landslide election victory of the Democratic Party of Japan. Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama pledged major reforms in political and economic governance, and may chart a new direction in foreign and security policy. However, some more ambitious plans may have to be scaled back.
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Europe’s unused rapid-response forces
The rapid-response battlegroups that the European Union has had on standby since 2005 have never been used. Sweden, holding the EU presidency, believes this is unsustainable and has launched an initiative to enable the EU to make better use of an instrument that it created in order to enhance its crisis-management capabilities.
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Australia’s defence strategy provokes controversy
Australia’s latest defence plans have provoked controversy at home and in its region. A White Paper outlined plans for significant improvements in defence capability over the next two decades, including a doubling of the submarine fleet. But it raised questions about Australia’s strategic interests and the affordability of the planned changes.
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