Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- May 4, 2021

Ian Sample, The Guardian: As UK nears zero Covid deaths, there’s good reason for optimism

Analysis: the vaccine strategy and staggered easing of restrictions have worked well. The next step is crucial

The handling of the coronavirus crisis in the UK has provided few moments to celebrate, but the day we reach zero deaths from the disease will clearly be one to toast.

That day may not be far off. On Tuesday, the UK reported four Covid deaths within 28 days of a positive test.

On Monday it was only one. Months of painful lockdown, in the face of more transmissible variants, and the rapid rollout of effective vaccines, have proven their worth.

We have good reason to feel optimistic for the months ahead.

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Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- May 4, 2021

COVID: Why is India facing an oxygen shortage? -- Murali Krishnan, DW

A Thousand Hezbollahs: Iraq’s Emerging Militia State -- Newsline Institute

Biden courts war in Mideast by dealing with Iran -- Brandon J Weichert, Asia Times

Biden Faces Heavy Constraints on Iran Deal 2.0 -- Andrew Desiderio,

Politico

Interview with David Petraeus: US troop withdrawal 'is not going to end the endless war in Afghanistan' -- France 24

Eliminate ambiguity over Taiwan, or risk unravelling regional credibility -- Lt. Col. Matthew R. Crouch, Defense News

Will Biden provide strategic clarity or further ambiguity on Taiwan? -- Joseph Bosco, The Hill

Fears of a Chinese attack on Taiwan are growing, and Taiwan isn't sure who would help if it happened -- Benjamin Brimelow, Business Insider

China's New Silk Road is full of potholes -- Clifford Coonan, DW

Even Dovish China-Watchers in America Are Turning Hawk -- Economist

Africa's Most Interesting Untapped Oil Play -- Viktor Katona, Oil Price

Egypt and Turkey draw closer as regional interests align -- AFP

Erdogan's $20bn canal to nowhere -- David Lepeska, The National

Nicola Sturgeon's Quest for Scottish Independence -- Sam Knight, New Yorker

How will Bill and Melinda Gates' divorce impact their charity? -- AFP