IRAN
Iran hedges on nuclear talks with six powers or U.S.
Adrian Croft and Alexandra Hudson, Reuters – Feb 4, 2013
Iran said on Sunday it was open to a U.S. offer of direct talks on its nuclear program and that six world powers had suggested a new round of nuclear negotiations this month, but without committing itself to either proposal.
Iran’s nuclear advance may be no empty boast : expert
Fredrik Dahl, Reuters – Feb 4, 2013
Iran could be able to make thousands of next-generation uranium enrichment machines, according to a former chief U.N. inspector, adding credibility to Tehran’s claims of technical advances in its disputed nuclear program.
Iran-US Talks: Path to Peace or Confidence Game?
Massimo Calabresi, TIME – Feb 4, 2013
As Iran faces potential bilateral talks with the U.S., confidence in significant progress resulting from the discussions remains shaky.
NORTH KOREA
Is N.Korea Planning Simultaneous Nuke Tests?
The Chosun Ilbo – Feb 4, 2013
North Korea has virtually finished preparations for nuclear tests in two tunnels at the Punggye-ri nuclear test site in North Hamgyong Province, observers believe.
[Analysis] With conflict brewing, more sanctions not likely to keep Korea calm
Kang Tae-ho, The Hankyoreh – Feb 4, 2013
With North Korea possibly preparing its third nuclear test, strategic intervention by the US and China may be needed.
US, South Korea Begin Joint Naval Exercise Amid Hints Pyongyang Poised For Another Nuclear Test
Amrutha Gayathri, International Business Times – Feb 4, 2013
South Korea and the U.S. launched a joint three-day naval drill Monday involving a U.S. nuclear submarine in the waters off the coast of the divided peninsula. The exercise comes amid speculation that North Korea is poised to test a nuclear weapon.
MISSILE DEFENSE
NATO: No Backing Down On Missile Shield
Radio Free Europe – Feb 3, 2013
NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen says the alliance has no intention of stepping back from its plans to establish a missile-defense system in Europe.
Qatar, Oman set for missile deals in 2013
Editor, Missile Threat – Feb 3, 2013
Qatar, Turkey and Oman are expected to order billions of dollars worth of new missile defense systems this year, according to the CEO of Raytheon, the world’s largest missile maker. Bill Swanson made the comments during a call with analysts at the weekend, Bloomberg reported.
Rafael to display Iron Dome at Aero India
Yuval Azulai, Globes – Feb 3, 2013
For the first time, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. will display all its anti-missile defense systems at the Aero India 2013 exhibition in Bangalore.
