Praemon

As the United States embraces a plan to get rid of all chemical weapons in Syria, the Syrian rebels are reorganizing themselves into Islamic coalitions that are independent of the US-backed Syrian National Coalition and are in opposition to an ascendant al-Qaeda. This reorganization represents a significant loss of US influence among the rebels, their willingness to adopt a hard-core Islamist character, and the probability of internal fighting between al-Qaeda and the other Sunni rebels in Syria.

The U.S.-Mexican relationship is at an important crossroads. Congress is debating the issue of immigration reform. New developments in the war on drugs have prompted questions about cooperation with Mexico. President Peña Nieto has adopted a plan for reform that provides the United States an opportunity to support its southern neighbor and solidify relations. At the same time, however, China is busy spreading its own influence in Mexico.

Another African terror chief is possibly dead—now is not the time to back away from a continent that western nations have largely ignored, and seem to not want to remember. With the hopeful news of the death of Abubakar Shekau, the United States should continue to assist legitimate African Governments in their efforts to combat terrorism across Africa. A continued offensive on behalf of the United States and its African allies would help to contain the spread of terrorism to a few isolated patches in the Middle East, as well as help the US in its larger strategic goals.

Recent events in Egypt highlight the need for increased attention on the flourishing (floundering?) Arab Spring. For where viable opportunities for democratic governance once flourished, an age old balance between religion and secularism is threatening the fragile democratic processes and institutions of these newly democratic nations. The U.S. can work with the current situation in order to help both our international image, as well as the struggling Arab states.