"Okinawa is not the central element in our discussions of the security alliance," an American official said.

But a security alliance is the wrong mechanism.

To risk the unity of America's most important security alliance by rushing ahead with an unproven system would be irresponsible.

But it has a security alliance with the United States and holds the world's largest reserves of uranium.

The Administration would rely on the states in the region, including Iran, to build postwar security alliances.

Equally, Japan has entered security alliances with America only on terms that suited its narrow interests.

Even the pro-American right wing has doubted the security alliance.

All democratic countries need to become part of a global security alliance, possibly on a regional basis, underpinned by US support.

Right now every security alliance, peacekeeping force and local militia with the means was probably sending units toward those mystery sites.

"Our security alliance is key to maintaining a Pacific at peace."