IRAN
As Britain Closes Embassies, Iran’s Isolation Could Complicate Nuclear Issue
John F. Burns, The New York Times — December 1, 2011
ith Britain’s decision to close its vandalized embassy in Tehran and expel all Iranian diplomats from London, Iran appears to have moved a major step closer to international pariah status. That isolation could complicate efforts by Western governments to halt what they have identified as Iran’s covert efforts to acquire nuclear weapons, according to diplomats and others who monitor Iranian affairs.
Iran Clings to Oil Lifeline as U.S. Pushes for Tighter Financial Sanctions
Indira Lakshmanan, Bloomberg — December 1, 2011
Just after 3 p.m. on Nov. 29, about 200 demonstrators ransacked the British Embassy in Tehran, chanting “Death to England,” setting fire to the Union Jack, carting off a portrait of Queen Elizabeth, and detaining staff as Iranian security officers stood by. It bore all the marks of a state-orchestrated provocation.
NORTH KOREA
On Burma (Myanmar) visit, Hillary Clinton highlights North Korea determination
Donald Kirk, Christian Science Monitor — December 1, 2011
As Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visits Burma (Myanmar) to laud democratic reforms there, Burma’s ally, North Korea, proudly claims rapid progress on its nuclear program.
North Korea Reports Progress on New Reactor
Choe Sang-Hun, The New York Times — November 30, 2011
North Korea reported brisk progress in building a new nuclear reactor and producing enriched uranium on Wednesday. Although the statement appeared to invite international inspectors to verify that the facilities are for peaceful purposes, it was the latest sign that North Korea is pressing ahead with its nuclear program.
PAKISTAN
Relatives of Killed Pakistani Soldiers Want Justice
Fox News — December 1, 2011
Azra Bashir spoke by phone to her son Usman, holed up in a freezing border outpost on the dangerous Afghanistan-Pakistan border, only hours before NATO airstrikes killed him and 23 other Pakistani soldiers. The 23 year-old captain told his mother not to worry about him, and reminded her to watch her health.
Pakistani court bars former envoy to U.S. from travel abroad
Karin Brulliard, Washington Post — December 1, 2011
Pakistan’s former ambassador to the United States on Thursday was barred from travel abroad while the Supreme Court investigates a controversial memo that led to his resignation.
BURMA
U.S. Will Relax Curbs on Aid to Myanmar
Steven Lee Myers, New York Times — December 1, 2011
Myanmar — Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton announced on Thursday that the United States would loosen some restrictions on international financial assistance and development programs in Myanmar in response to the country’s nascent political and economic reforms.
Clinton pledges improved Burma ties if reforms continue
BBC News — December 1, 2011
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has pledged to improve ties with Burma if current reforms continue.
