The links between security and globalization were highlighted by the 2001 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, DC, and the subsequent long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Lingering poverty, inequality, religious extremism and war can sow discontent and resentment as unprecedented global mobility lends access to education and travel in other countries. Despite use of drones, cyber-warfare and other advanced weapons technology to mount counterterrorist attacks, the marginalized can strike out at vulnerable urban or economic centers. Annual global defense spending exceeds $1.6 trillion. Containing the trade in weapons, whether nuclear bombs or assault rifles, and preventing them from falling into the wrong hands remain a challenge.

Iraq Through the Prism of Vietnam

A three-phase progression of miscalculation links Vietnam and Iraq
William E. Odom
March 8, 2006

Don’t Exaggerate Iranian Threat

Confronting Iran in a nuclear standoff, the world cannot afford false alarms
Thomas W. Lippman
May 25, 2006

As Death Stalks Iraq, Middle-Class Exodus Begins

Sectarian violence poses danger and heartbreak for middle-class Iraqis
Sabrina Tavernise
May 23, 2006

Iraq Black Hole: The $2 Trillion War

US government continues to overlook the true costs of the Iraq war
Craig Lambert
May 18, 2006

Islamist Threats to Dutch Politician Bring Chill at Home

Hard-core critics of Islam unnerve the West
Andrew Higgins
May 18, 2006