The federal government of Australia has raised substantial concerns about an American energy company's proposal to conduct hydraulic fracturing operations in one of the world's most ecologically significant regions. Black Mountain Energy, a Texas-based corporation operating through its subsidiary Bennett Resources, has applied for federal approval to drill twenty natural gas … [Read more...] about Federal Officials Question American Energy Company’s Environmental Assessment in Australian Outback
Taliban Forces Kill Woman and Child During Rare Protest in Western Afghanistan
Taliban security forces opened fire on protesters in Afghanistan's Herat province Tuesday, killing at least one woman and a child in what marks one of the most violent crackdowns on public dissent since the regime retook control of the nation nearly five years ago. The demonstration, a rare act of defiance in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, erupted in response to recent mass … [Read more...] about Taliban Forces Kill Woman and Child During Rare Protest in Western Afghanistan
White House Continues to Predict Imminent Iran Deal Amid Diplomatic Deadlock
President Donald Trump continues to express confidence that a comprehensive nuclear agreement with Iran will materialize in the coming days, despite months of slow-moving diplomatic efforts and fundamental disagreements that have yet to be resolved. Speaking to reporters following his attendance at the NBA Finals in New York, the president characterized the negotiations as … [Read more...] about White House Continues to Predict Imminent Iran Deal Amid Diplomatic Deadlock
Israel and Iran Halt Military Operations Following Trump Appeal for Restraint
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Monday that Israel has ceased its military operations against Iran and Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, following a parallel declaration from Tehran's military command that it too would halt its attacks. The temporary cessation of hostilities represents a significant de-escalation in what had become the most serious confrontation … [Read more...] about Israel and Iran Halt Military Operations Following Trump Appeal for Restraint
Xi Jinping Arrives in Pyongyang as China Seeks to Reassert Influence Over North Korea
Chinese President Xi Jinping touched down in Pyongyang Thursday for his first visit to North Korea in nearly seven years, marking a significant diplomatic effort by Beijing to reassert its influence over an ally that has grown increasingly close to Moscow. The two-day state visit comes at a critical juncture in Northeast Asian geopolitics, as China watches with evident concern … [Read more...] about Xi Jinping Arrives in Pyongyang as China Seeks to Reassert Influence Over North Korea