One of the most remote pieces of real estate in the world has become something of an international flashpoint over the years. In 2019, the UN affirmed that the Chagos Archipelago, which includes Diego Garcia, is Mauritian territory. So, Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth recently announced that his offer of a 99-year lease was still on the table. The Mauritians want …
Is Iraq Prepared for a U.S. Withdrawal?
In 2004, President George W. Bush said American troops would leave the war-torn country when it could defend itself against foreign and domestic threats. Almost 20 years later, that goal is still unreached. Before 2014, Iraq was almost completely dependent on America for protection. Since the late 2010s, Iraq’s military ground component has improved substantially, though field commanders still have …
Trump Wants to Withdraw Troops From Afghanistan by Christmas
How many times have we heard that there are plans afoot to “bring the boys home by Christmas”? But with a peace deal seemingly within reach, this time, that might actually happen. It is uncertain if the President’s tweet was a policy statement, a wishful desire, an Executive Order, or something else. The United States has already agreed to withdraw …
Major Al Qaeda Losses in Syria
Officials say that an October airstrike which killed seven terrorist leaders in northwestern Syria would significantly disrupt Al Qaeda’s activities in the war-torn country. Few details about the attack. U.S. Central Command spokesperson Maj. Beth Riordan said that the assault occurred near Idlib. Major Riordan did not identify the dead terrorists, but stated that their demise would hinder al Qaeda’s …
Military Buildup Continues in Guam
A long range bomber group is the latest addition to the combat lineup on this once-remote Pacific island. In April 2020, the Air Force began rotating bomber groups in and out of Guam. Each rotation is usually a bit longer than the previous one. This system gets more airmen and air crews acclimated to service on Guam. That experience could …