While recent U.S. naval exercises to improve rapid response capabilities in the Pacific are prudent at this time, they should be made in conjunction with an upgrade of Middle East military forces.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: China looks to the Middle East

Their idea of putting U.S. forces in the middle of this conflict is sheer lunacy.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Return to Mideast First Principles

Meanwhile, the consumer is caught in the middle while these two competing forces try to minimize their expenditures.

FORBES: Launching A Revolution In Health