U.S. supports Israel's right of self-defense

United Nations Resolution 1701 codified a ceasefire over the blue line between Israel and Lebanon after Israel's conflict with Hezbollah in 2006.

"We support Israel's legitimate right to self defense," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters on Wednesday, urging both parties to "respect the blue line between Israel and Lebanon."

http://www.jpost.com/Arab-Israeli-Conflict/US-says-Hezbollah-in-blatant-violation-of-UN-resolutions-389315

As Obama visits, signs that India is pushing back against China

 When Sri Lanka unexpectedly turfed out President Mahinda Rajapaksa in an election this month, it was the biggest setback in decades for China's expansion into South Asia - and a remarkable diplomatic victory for India.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/01/21/us-india-usa-china-idUSKBN0KU1IF20150121

Disenchanted militants in South Asia eye Islamic State with envy

"Look, we have been fighting for years but we don't have an inch of land in our possession in Afghanistan," said the senior commander, who spoke from the Afghan province of Kunar.
"On the other hand, Daish, within limited time, captured vast areas in Iraq and Syria and established Sharia. This is what is being discussed all the time in our circles."
"We have serious doubts about whether he (Omar) is alive at all ... Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is visible and is leading his people," the commander said, referring to the IS leader.


http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/01/21/us-mideast-crisis-southasia-insight-idUSKBN0KU2VC20150121

France 'ready' to bomb rebels on Libya border - Middle East - Al Jazeera English

France 'ready' to bomb rebels on Libya border - Middle East - Al Jazeera English

Libya bans Palestinians from country to prevent entry of terrorists

http://www.haaretz.com/mobile/1.635443?v=F0D441BC2284DAE48E0C8986EB2AAE1B