Terrorism and Security | csmonitor.com

UN mission to Syria comes under attack in Idlib (+video)

An IED went off yesterday in the town of Khan Sheikhoun, damaging a UN observer convoy and killing at least 20 locals, but no UN observers. The government and opposition blame each other.

Philippines feels the economic cost of standing up to China

The South China Sea dispute between China and the Philippines is beginning to take its toll on the Philippine economy, which is heavily dependent on Chinese demand for its exports.

UN's nuclear agency, Iran begin critical meeting ahead of Baghdad talks

Today's meeting between the International Atomic Energy Agency and Iranian officials is meant to lay the groundwork for next week's critical meeting in Baghdad between Iran and the P5 + 1.

Damascus bombings prompt warnings of Iraq-style insurgency

Yesterday's bombings in Damascus were the largest since the uprising began. The US and others are sounding an alarm about a particularly worrisome turn in the conflict.

Two bombings rock Damascus in one of largest attacks since uprising (+video)

No group has claimed responsibility for today's bombings in Damascus that killed at least 40 people, but an Al Qaeda-inspired group has claimed similar attacks in the past.

UN envoy to Syria pins hopes for ending violence on observer mission

Kofi Annan said the observer mission was 'the only remaining chance to stabilize the country,' even though fighting has continued with observers on the ground.

China blames the Philippines for South China Sea dispute

China warned the Philippines that confrontation over a disputed island in the South China Sea could worsen. Beijing has made 'every preparation' to counter Manila's 'provocations.'

US hostage Warren Weinstein makes plea to Obama in Al Qaeda video (+video)

Warren Weinstein, a long time development expert who was kidnapped in Pakistan last year, said in a video released by Al Qaeda 'my life is in your hands, Mr. President.'

Taliban suicide bombing in northwestern Pakistan kills at least 19

The attack targeted members of a local security force that had helped kill or otherwise diminish the Taliban's power in the Bajaur district of Pakistan.

Dissent, elections make Israel's next steps on Iran difficult to predict

Former government and security officials' criticism of the Netanyahu government's hard-line approach on Iran is now coupled with the uncertainty of an election campaign.

Al Shabab strikes Somali lawmakers

A suicide bombing in a Somali town more than 300 miles from Mogadishu killed at least two lawmakers who were engaged in trying to set up a lasting government.

Both sides violating Syria cease-fire. Still worth supporting? (+video)

United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon called on all parties in Syria to stand by the cease-fire, which has been repeatedly violated by both the government and the opposition.

How US special forces help in the hunt for Joseph Kony (+video)

Some 100 Special Forces soldiers are advising and training regional troops searching for Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord's Resistance Army, in central Africa.

Israeli leadership denies divisions on Iran, after army chief made a stir

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak insisted that Iranian leaders are not rational, rebutting comments made earlier in the week by IDF chief Benny Gantz.

Syrian regime fights on, but is running out of money

The Arab League called an emergency meeting today to debate next steps, amid reports that Syria is violating a UN cease-fire. Some advocate staying the course, as sanctions start to pinch.

Observers in Syria having an impact, but only 11 on the ground so far (+video)

Another 100 are slated to come in a month. 'Are they coming on horses?' asks an exasperated activist.

North Korea threat: China reaches out to agitated Pyongyang

North Korea threat: Washington says it has traced the sale of truck parts North Korea used to transport missiles to a Chinese company. Is Beijing not fully enforcing sanctions on North Korea?

Amid dispute over oil, Sudan bombs South Sudanese towns (+video)

When South Sudan declared independence from Sudan, it took three quarters of the formerly united country's oil, which has since been a source of tension and conflict.

Beijing responds calmly to India missile test

The Chinese government has underscored its desire for cooperation with India, rather than an arms race.

India tests missile that can reach China (+video)

The successful test launch of India's Agni-V missile means that India now has a long-range missile that can reach China's population centers, giving it a new level of deterrence.