Global Security Studies Practicum

09 November 2011 The new Showtime drama television show, “Homeland” depicts counterterrorism measures. The ratings are quite high for just six episodes aired, and it was created after the Israeli drama, “ Hatufim ”. The difference between the Israeli version and the American version is that it focuses on a POW and a CIA agent, who thinks the POW, is covertly working for al-Qaeda . The thriller effect of the show revolves around the idea of an American hero soldier betraying the country and working towards terrorism. “Homeland” depicts the involvement of the military, politicians, and the intelligence community working together in the fight against terrorism. Source: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1111/67860.html Reliability: 9 Homeland trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqddY2sOk6U

3 October 2011 On Tuesday, India and Afghanistan signed a partnership pact. In the pact, India pledged to increase cooperation in counterterrorism operations, training of security forces, and help in the stabilizing of Afghanistan. India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan, having invested more than $2 billion in development and infrastructure projects. The India-Afghanistan pact coincides with increase of relations between Kabul and Islamabad following Afghanistan officials accusing Pakistan of support recent high profile attacks in the country. The agreement with India could further strain the relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan. India and Afghanistan also announce commercial ties in mining, mineral exploration, developing of hydrocarbons. Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia-pacific/india-and-afghanistan-sign-security-and-trade-pact/2011/10/04/gIQAHLOOLL_story.html Reliable: 9