Associated Press – Japan’s Defense Ministry has denied a media report that it is planning to withdraw its naval mission to support U.S.-led troops in Afghanistan on Nov. 1, saying the government expects parliament to approve an extension before then.
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Virginian Pilot – After two years, three trips around the globe and more than 100,000 miles at sea, the Swift returned Friday to Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base.
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Foreign Affairs – Since the Democrats regained control of Congress, the Hill has been alive with the sound of hearings. Congress’ earlier slumber and recent awakening should come as no surprise: for the last six decades, the partisan composition of Congress has defined the politics of war. Now facing a Democratic majority, President George W. Bush will find it far more difficult to stay in Iraq.
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