Expert Commentary

Expert Commentary features quick-reaction analysis  in which a number of fellows discuss a developing event or topic. This series aims to distill complex issues by explaining the key facts in short, concise responses.

Balancing Acts: Deterrence and Reassurance in US-China Strategy

Managing Tensions, Maintaining Balance—Michael Beckley This month, we’re zeroing in on a core tension in US strategy toward China: how to strike the right balance between deterrence and reassurance. As Washington strengthens military postures, deepens coalitions, and hardens supply...

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Charting the End State for US Strategy Toward China

As the new Trump administration formulates its China strategy, defining clear end states will be essential to avoid a reactive or incoherent approach. A long-term rivalry with a peer competitor like China demands more than tactical responses—it requires a...

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Strengthening US Alliances in the Indo-Pacific

American allies in the Indo-Pacific are the cornerstone of the US strategy to maintain regional stability, deter aggression, and uphold a free and open international order. Through access, interoperability, and shared capabilities, these alliances extend American power and enable...

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Recommendations to Congress for Strengthening Asia Policy

With a newly elected Congress, there is an opportunity to reinforce the US focus on the Indo-Pacific. As geopolitical dynamics in the region continue to evolve, it will be important for Congress to consider funding and legislative measures that...

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Trump’s Second Term: Charting a New Path in Asia

Donald Trump’s inauguration as president signals the start of a new chapter in U.S. policy toward Asia, particularly in its approach to China and regional allies. With a focus on reasserting American strength, his administration is likely to emphasize...

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What’s Next for Syria, the Region, and the World?

Philip Wasielewski Bashar al-Assad’s fall from power has ended the Baath Party’s and Assad dynasty’s long rule over Syria. The Baath Party is secular, but the Assads are Alawites, a Shia-sect found mostly along Syria’s coast. Today, the force...

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Trump’s Return: Implications for the Indo-Pacific

Donald Trump’s return to the White House could bring a shift in U.S. foreign policy, with significant implications for the Indo-Pacific region. Given the region’s growing importance in global trade, security, and geopolitics, his approach could reshape how the...

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Georgia’s Foreign Agents Law and Resulting Protests

For weeks, tens of thousands of Georgians have taken to the streets of Tbilisi and other cities to protest their government’s attempt to pass a so-called “foreign agents law,” which they claim is intended to neutralize civil society and...

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Tempting Fate: The Implications of Iran’s Attack on Israel

On Saturday, April 13, the Islamic Republic of Iran launched an unprecedented aerial attack on Israel. The Israeli military and its allies and partners were successful in defending against the attack. FPRI Senior Fellow Afshon Ostovar and Aaron Stein,...

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Crocus City Hall Concert Attack

On Friday, March 22, an attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow killed or wounded hundreds of people. The assault was the deadliest act of terrorism in the Russian capital in more than a decade. The...

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