An Israeli-Syrian peace deal and a U.S.-Iranian deal over Iraq are within sight. These developments suggest the Cold War interregnum is coming to a close and a new era is dawning. [more]
The U.N. Security Council voted Jan. 15 to extend the mandate of the U.N. peacekeepers in Cote d'Ivoire. Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo might see this as an opportunity to hold a presidential election. [more]
A strike by Cote d'Ivoire's Coffee and Cocoa Exchange -- timed to coincide with the country's cocoa harvest season -- is aimed at giving the group negotiating leverage for better pay and work conditions. [more]
Even if the newest plan to disarm and reintegrate Cote d'Ivoire's New Forces rebel group is successful, other tensions will remain until the southern-based government addresses the core issue of national identity. [more]
Stratfor CEO Dr. George Friedman discusses his new book, "The Next 100 Years" which publishes January 27, 2009. The book, which has already begun receiving critical acclaim, offers a lucid, highly readable forecast of the changes he expects around the world during the 21st century.
"Israel's intention here is to wreck Hamas - its infrastructure, its personnel. They don't expect to be able to destroy Hamas permanently as an organization."
George Friedman Fox Business Network December 29, 2008
"Deploying ships to the Gulf of Aden marks a significant step in the evolution of China's navy, according to a report by Stratfor, an Austin, Texas-based intelligence company. The mission will be complicated, offering vital on-the-job training in refueling, resupply and repairs far from home as well as patrolling for pirates, Stratfor said."
Associated Press December 26, 2008
Out of the Shadows
Stratfor vice president for counterterrorism and corporate security Fred Burton discusses his best-selling book, an autobiography of a career spent hunting terrorists and protecting national security.