Vice President Joe Biden was in Paris to reassure France that the Franco-American relationship is warm and cordial. Biden also gave a vision for the second term of the Obama administration, including advancing on gun control.

Muslim rebels in Mali impose martial law, cut off hands, and forcibly impress children into combat roles. Qatar is entwined with the rebels, hoping to extend Islam and its own regional power.

Like Afghan Taliban terrorists, the Ansar al Dine terrorists of Mali prohibit smoking, music, and television.

Rival Muslim groups control the northern region of Mali.

Sooner or later, dialogue with the Islamist sect - Boko Haram - must commence, since security measures have not been sufficient.

Until they figure out how to use IEDs effectively, Boko Haram may remain just a regional threat. For now.