East Asia is currently rethinking its defense posture in light of the Iran war and a more assertive China. Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are all reviewing their security plans as US foreign policy becomes less predictable. These nations are now questioning long-held assumptions about protection from Washington and are looking to strengthen their own military forces.
DW's Rik Glauert looks at what is driving this shift, especially the chance that the US might move military resources from Asia to the Middle East. This prospect means regional countries must get ready to defend themselves more on their own, even as they keep ties with allies like the US. The piece outlines how East Asia is adjusting to a new phase of security challenges in the region.