Chinese President Xi Jinping says his country stands ready to fight anyone “creating trouble,” for the mainland, in a clear message to the United States not to misjudge its determination to defend the nation.

Islamic State in Central Africa Province recently conducted an attack in Tanzania, with violence spilling over from neighboring northern Mozambique. ISCAP’s attack in Tanzania demonstrates the group is comprised not only of Mozambicans, but also Tanzanians and other fighters from the region.

Iran has made significant gains in its efforts to reduce U.S. influence in Iraq and drive out U.S. forces. Secretary of State Pompeo’s threats to close the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad will not prompt Prime Minister al-Kadhimi to rein in Iran-backed militias.