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CWA # 1983, 25 February 2026
The World Today #264, 25 February 2026

  Global Politics Team

The World Today
President Trump’s State of the Union address: Hails “golden age of America,” emphasises economic revival and border security; sharp criticism of Democrats and limited clarity on Iran
On 24 February, President Trump addressed a joint session of Congress amid declining approval ratings, rising tensions with Iran, and voter frustration over the cost of living, ahead of the November midterm elections. The President, early in his speech, put forth that “Our nation is back -- bigger, better, richer and stronger than ever before,” and described his presidency as setting forth “the golden age of America.” The speech maintained focus on domestic economic policy; Trump stated that inflation, mortgage rates, and gas prices were falling, while the stock market, oil production, foreign investment, construction, and manufacturing jobs were rising. He defended tax cuts, efforts to lower drug prices, and the tariff measures struck down by the Supreme Court as a “very unfortunate ruling,” stating that they were generating revenue. Although he addressed household concerns such as housing, healthcare, and retirement, he did not directly acknowledge the continuing concerns of high food and housing costs. On foreign policy, Trump claimed ending eight wars. Iran was mentioned only later in the speech wherein he reiterated the need to prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, but did not clarify the scope or details of potential military action. He made limited references to Venezuela, Russia, and Ukraine, and previously emphasized issues such as Greenland and China were absent in his address this year, reflecting changing priorities.

Trump repeatedly spoke with a sharp, critical tone about Democrats, aimed at their immigration policies. He stated that “today, our border is secure,” highlighting that in the past nine months, “zero illegal aliens have been admitted.” He associated strict border control to controlled fentanyl flows and a historical decline in the murder rate. The address also included calls for new legislation, such as the “Dalilah law” banning states from granting commercial licences to undocumented migrants; restoring full funding to the Department of Homeland Security; and passing the “Save America Act,” which requires voter ID and proof of citizenship to vote. Trump called for a “war on fraud” and cited alleged corruption in states such as Minnesota. The address, therefore, combined claims of economic revival, secure borders, progressive measures on social safety aspects, the golden age of America, with repeated criticism of Democrats and ambiguity on Iran.

India and Israel: PM Modi visits Israel amid US–Iran tensions and domestic political criticism
On 25 February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel for a two-day visit, holding talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv. The visit, which includes discussions on artificial intelligence and defence cooperation, comes at a time of heightened regional tensions due to the United States’ naval buildup near Iran and the risk of possible military strikes. PM Modi is scheduled to address the Knesset and pay tribute at Yad Vashem, signalling the continued deepening of India–Israel ties since his landmark 2017 visit. However, the trip has drawn sharp criticism at home. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) termed it a “betrayal of the Palestinian cause,” while the Indian National Congress accused Modi of “moral cowardice.” Opposition leaders also questioned the timing, citing India’s advisory for its nationals to leave Iran amid fears of escalation.

Germany and China: Chancellor Friedrich Merz urges fair trade, deeper investment during his first visit to China, aiming for an economic reset
On 25 February, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on China to increase its investment in Germany while addressing market distortions, beginning his first official visit to Beijing since taking office. During the deliberations with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, Merz emphasized the need for a “fair” framework of cooperation, focusing on subsidies, industry overcapacity, and currency manipulation, which together accounted for the rising trade deficit between Germany and its major trading partner. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for better strategic communication amid an unstable international order, while Premier Li Qiang focused on protecting multilateralism and free trade. This was reportedly seen as a subtle way to respond to the protectionist trends linked to US President Donald Trump and to broader protectionist trends. Contrary to expectations of a readjustment in relations, the two countries agreed on five small-scale agreements covering climate cooperation, animal disease control, and sports exchanges. Merz, who was accompanied by a 30-member business delegation including representatives from Volkswagen and BMW, sought to balance Germany's economic dependence on China's large market with mounting demands to reduce strategic dependence.

Zimbabwe: Government halts raw mineral and lithium exports due to compliance concerns
On 25 February, Zimbabwe froze the exports of all raw minerals and lithium concentrates with immediate effect due to concerns over malpractices and leakages in the export system. The mines ministry stated that the ban will apply to all minerals currently in transit and will continue until further notice as the government considers procedures to “curb leakages and enhance efficiency.” The government stated that it  was done in the national interest and ensured its commitment to in-country value addition and compliance. Zimbabwe, Africa’s leading lithium producer, exported 1.128 million metric tons of lithium spodumene concentrate in 2025, 11 percent from the previous year. Most of these exports are destined for China, where they are processed. Chinese companies have invested heavily in the sector, with projects worth USD 400 million and USD 500 million announced for the processing of lithium sulphate in the country.

Iran: Ali Shamkhani returns to central role in Tehran’s war room after surviving strike
On 25 February, Ali Shamkhani, has been appointed as secretary of Iran’s newly established Defence Council, created after Israel’s and the US’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and military sites last year. He is one of the Supreme Leader’s most trusted advisers, survived an Israeli strike in June 2025. He is a former Revolutionary Guard commander who led the Supreme National Security Council, including during Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal and the US’s withdrawal from the deal in 2018, until he became a political adviser to Khamenei in 2023. The council is tasked with coordinating Iran’s wartime actions at a time when the US is threatening new military strikes if negotiations do not produce a new deal curbing Iran’s nuclear programme. Ali Shamkhani said that any military action by the US would be considered the start of a war, and that Iran’s response would be immediate.

The Indian Neighbourhood Today
Nepal: Kathmandu to witness high competition in the upcoming elections
On 25 February, the Himalayan reported on the upcoming elections in Nepal, scheduled for a week later. 68 parties are taking part in the election, though the spotlight is mostly on three parties. They are the Nepali Congress (NC), the Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML), and the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). Despite this, other parties have also emerged very strongly in recent times, for example, the Ujyalo Nepal Party has also occupied the forefront of Nepali politics. Then there is the Labour Culture Party, which is the brainchild of Harka Sampang, the mayor of Dharan Municipality, which seeks to establish a culture of labour in the country then there is also the other old parties like the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), whose ultimate objective is to restore the monarchy in the country. The NC has been justifiably expecting a clean sweep, especially after crafting incredible change under the charismatic leader Thapa.

Bhutan: Thimphu feels the effects of moderate inflation profoundly in everyday life
On 25 February, the Kuensel reported a rise in the inflation rate in Bhutan. The inflation rate stood at 2.78 per cent in 2024 and increased to 3.51 per cent in 2025, which is lower than the 2023 rate of 4.23 per cent. While economists describe the rate as moderate, consumers still feel its impact greatly in their daily lives. The inflation in Bhutan has traditionally moved in line with India due to the Ngultrum's peg to the Indian Rupee. However, in 2025, there was a break in this trend when India's inflation rate declined, and Bhutan reported a slight increase. Ministry officials attribute this to policy changes and supply constraints, which contributed to the rise in prices of essential goods. Bhutan's import-dependent economy also makes it vulnerable to price fluctuations. The inflation rate may also face short-term upward pressure with the introduction of the five per cent Goods and Services Tax.

Bangladesh: Dhaka marks Pilkhana carnage anniversary
On 25 February, Dhaka Tribune reported that President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid homage to the victims of the 2009 Pilkhana BDR carnage, marking Jatiya Shaheed Sena Dibas with solemn ceremonies at the Banani Military Graveyard in Dhaka. The two leaders honoured the 74 people killed, including 57 army officers slain during the mutiny at the former Bangladesh Rifles headquarters on February 25–26, 2009, observing a minute of silence and offering prayers for the departed souls. In a message marking the day, the prime minister said that in a “fascism-free Bangladesh,” the public now understands the real reasons behind the carnage, noting that the trial remains ongoing and that detailed comment would be inappropriate. He called for national unity against any conspiracy targeting the country’s independence, sovereignty and armed forces, reaffirming a commitment to safeguarding the honour and integrity of the military.

Bangladesh and China: Ambassador pledges increased investment in Bangladesh amid political stability
On 25 February, The Daily Star reported that Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said China would increase its investment in Bangladesh, noting that a politically stable government has been established in the country. He made the remarks during a courtesy call on Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed at the ministry. During the meeting, the home minister described China and Bangladesh as time-tested friends and said Dhaka seeks to elevate bilateral ties in light of regional, strategic and geographical realities. He highlighted that China is one of Bangladesh’s largest development partners, with investments in major infrastructure and development projects, and urged Beijing to further expand its investment footprint. Ambassador Yao noted that around 10,000 Chinese nationals are currently working across various sectors in Bangladesh, stressing that development and security are closely interlinked and calling for strengthened law enforcement and security measures to help foster greater investment confidence.

Myanmar: Special Council for Myanmar praises Timor-Leste for exploring legal actions against junta leader
On 25 February, Mizzima reported that the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar praised Timor-Leste for leading ASEAN in exploring legal action against Myanmar’s military junta, including junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, under the principle of universal jurisdiction. The move follows mounting international efforts to hold the junta accountable, including arrest warrants issued by an Argentine court and proceedings at the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice over alleged genocide and crimes against humanity against the Rohingya. The council urged ASEAN members, particularly the Philippines as current chair, to back Timor-Leste’s initiative, cooperate with international justice mechanisms, and take firmer action to ensure accountability and uphold regional credibility.  

Myanmar: Military bombs gold mines
On 25 February, Mizzima reported that a Myanmar military Mil Mi-17 helicopter dropped three bombs on the Naung Hmaw gold mine near Homalin Township on 23 February, triggering a massive fire at the site jointly controlled by the junta and the Shanni Nationalities Army. The mine, located about 10 miles from Homalin town, is a densely populated worksite, raising fears of significant casualties among miners and soldiers, though no verified figures have been released. Residents said it remains unclear whether the strike was accidental or deliberate. The bombing followed a separate junta airstrike a day earlier near Pinnokesut village, where seven civilians were reportedly killed, as the military continues targeting gold mining operations in the area.

Sri Lanka: Former president Wickremesinghe calls for cross party discussions for disaster management
On 25 February, the Daily Mirror reported that former president Ranil Wickremesinghe called for an all-party discussion on disaster management in the backdrop of the flood and cyclone aftermath. This meeting aims to address representatives on current and past disaster management measures. It also seeks to coordinate responses towards a national emergency. This, highlights the fact that disaster mitigation is a significant accountability issue for the administration. While criticism of the administration persists, the participation of the opposition parties signals consensus during a crisis.

Afghanistan: Cross-border firings add to existing tension
On 25 February, Al Jazeera reported that both Afghan and Pakistani forces witnessed firing from either side at the border. These clashes come days after the air strikes conducted by Pakistan on Afghanistan. While it is unclear how the clash started, both sides blamed each other for triggering it. The fighting, however, has since stopped as per Zabihullah Noorani, head of the Afghan information department. The Pakistani counterpart, Mosharraf Zaidi, added accusations against the Afghan forces and complained about not having provoked them. These developments follow the incident of the Taliban regime in Kabul promising to respond to the attacks from Pakistan. 18 people are said to have been killed, while the Islamabad officials claim more than 80 fighters were actually eliminated.

Iran: Domestic tensions rise as third round of talks comes closer
On 25 February, the BBC reported on a video that, after verification, proves an instance of student protest in Iran. Several universities across are reportedly protesting, with 13 currently counted. There is said to be widespread dissatisfaction with the Tehran regime and with developments among “counter-demonstrators” as well. Meanwhile, the US military build-up in the Middle East also continues with several fighter jets and warships being added to its fleets. Recent comments by President Donald Trump have sparked anger amongst several tiers of the regime, with many officials replying against him. The third round of talks, also to be held in Geneva and mediated by Oman, will involve Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Pakistan: Senate condemns Netanyahu’s proposed anti-Muslim alliance framework, backs Palestine and Somali sovereignty
On 24 February, Dawn reported that the Senate of Pakistan, on Monday, unanimously adopted a resolution to condemn Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement regarding the establishment of the 'system' of alliances with India and other countries to counter other Muslim countries, terming his comments 'provocative and detrimental to peace at the regional and global levels.' The resolution condemned the move by Israel to officially announce recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland; complained of "gross violations" of the recent Gaza ceasefire as well as other Israeli actions in Occupied Palestine; demanded "the international community to stop Israel from committing crimes with impunity and provision of uninterrupted access for humanitarian assistance - including UNRWA; for the facilitation of Gaza's early rehabilitation" and for recognition of the "independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the two-state formula as embodied in the UN resolutions of 1978 and 1980 with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

Pakistan and Iran: Tehran envoy highlights closer Islamabad-Tehran coordination amid shared security and regional priorities
On 25 February, Dawn reported that Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri-Moghaddam, said Pakistan and Iran shared views on several regional and international issues, including Palestine and that cooperation was required to address the challenges of terrorism and separatism. He spoke at an ISSI conference on Pakistan-Iran relations. He said the relationship between the two countries was in a ‘constructive phase’ as there had been over 25 visits at the level of foreign minister and above in the last two years, and as many as 25 MOUs and agreements had been signed in a variety of sectors, as well as many visits by senior dignitaries. Other speakers agreed that the relationship had deep historical roots and was increasingly moving in a positive direction. Challenges to the relationship, including terrorism, sectarianism and instability in the wider region, were also mentioned.

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The Berlin Pride attack
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Rohini Reenum | Rohini Reenum is a doctoral student at NIAS. She is working on Governance in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction using the case study of the BBNJ Agreement.

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Conflicts in the Middle East:
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Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.

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King Charles's US Visit: 
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Japan, Vietnam and PM Takaichi’s Visit
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Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf is a postgraduate student at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.

UAE's Exit from OPEC: 
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Glynnis Winona B | Glynnis Winona B is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St. Joseph's University, Bengaluru. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru

US troop withdrawal from Germany: 
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Brighty Ann Sarah | Brighty Ann Sarah is a Research Assistant with the Global Politics team at the Science, Technology and International Relations (STIR) Programme at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.

The US-Iran War, Week Nine:
CW Review
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Jenin Raj S | Dr Jenin Raj S is an Assistant Professor and Head of the Centre for Media, Department of Journalism, Mount Carmel College (Autonomous), Bengaluru.

Media freedom hits a 25-year low:
TWTW Note
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Aishal Hab Yousuf | Aishal Hab Yousuf, Postgraduate student, Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. She is currently an intern at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru.

Japan’s New Defence Posture:
CW Note
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Brighty Ann Sarah | Ms Sarah is a Research Assistant at NIAS and Assistant Editor of NIAS Conflict Weekly.

Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:
CW Note
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Akshath Kaimal | Mr Kaimal is a Research Assistant at NIAS. He works on Pakistan and Africa.

The US-Iran War, Week Eight:
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April 2026 | CWA # 2065

Lakshmi Venugopal Menon | Dr Lakshmi Venugopal Menon is an academic and policy researcher specializing in Gulf studies, cultural heritage trafficking, geopolitics, migration, Afghan politics and the Taliban.

The Middle East (Jan–Mar 2026):
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Preetha Renganarayanan

March 2026 | CWA # 2001

Preetha Renganarayanan

PR Commentary
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Preetha Renganarayanan

February 2026 | CWA # 1959

Yesasvi Koganti | Yesasvi Koganti is an undergraduate student from Madras Christian College, Chennai.

UK and China
February 2026 | CWA # 1957

Preetha Renganarayanan | R Preetha is pursuing post-graduation in the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai, and is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.

The India-US interim trade framework
February 2026 | CWA # 1956

Lekshmi MK | Lekshmi MK is pursuing post-graduation in the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai, and is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.

End of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START)
TWTW note
August 2025 | CWA # 1780

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

Trump tariffs:
TWTW Note
June 2025 | CWA # 1694

Aashish Ganeshan

The US:
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1688

Ayan Datta

Gaza
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1675

Lekshmi MK

Turkey:
CW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1673

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine:
TWTW Note
May 2025 | CWA # 1667

R Preetha and Brighty Ann Sarah

East Asia:
Science, Technology and International Relations
September 2019 | CWA # 162

Lakshman Chakravarthy N

5G: A Primer
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 71

Mahesh Bhatta | Centre for South Asian Studies, Kathmandu

Nepal
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 70

Nasima Khatoon | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

The Maldives
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 69

Harini Madhusudan | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

India
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 68

Sourina Bej | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

Bangladesh
South Asia Monthly Brief (Nov 2018)
December 2018 | CWA # 67

Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer | Research Associate, ISSSP, NIAS

Afghanistan