Global Politics Explainer

Global Politics Explainer
Operation Midnight Hammer: US bombs three nuclear sites in Iran
What were the three Iranian nuclear sites that were targeted? What are the B2 Bombers and Bunker Buster Bombs? What do these attacks mean? What Next?

Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair & M Kejia
22 June 2025
Photo Source: Google Map. Places are approximate and not to scale.

What happened?
What does President Trump has to say about the US attacks in Iran on 22 June 2025?

On 22 June, President Donald Trump announced that the US military had hit three of Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities in a “very successful attack,” adding that the heavily strengthened Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan facilities are “gone” and “now is the time for peace. In his statement, he highlighted that the objective was to destroy Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity and stop the nuclear threat caused by the world’s number one state sponsor of terror. Trump thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for working as a “team” to erase the “horrible threat to Israel.”

The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, congratulated Trump for his bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities. He added that “History will record that President Trump acted to deny the world’s most dangerous regime the world’s most dangerous weapons.”

Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan: 
What do we know about the three nuclear sites that the US has targeted?

The Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, located deep inside the mountains of the city of Qom in northwestern Iran, is central to Iran’s nuclear project. The facility has been operational since 2009 and in 2023, IAEA confirmed that Fordow houses nearly 2,700 centrifuges and has enriched uranium to levels of up to 83.7 per cent, making it the only facility with near weapon-grade uranium just short of the 90 per cent threshold. Strategically located at around 80-110 meters underground and heavily shielded, Fordow demands ‘bunker-buster’ bombs, like the 30,000-pound GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator B-2 bombers used by the US to penetrate the facility. In 2024, Washington reported a large-scale expansion of nearly 1,400 new centrifuges in Fordow, inciting international alarm.  Iran is also suspected of stockpiling 60 per cent enriched uranium at Fordow. 

Natanz is Iran’s largest and most sophisticated uranium enrichment facility that develops and assembles uranium enrichment centrifuges, a technology vital in turning uranium into nuclear fuel. The uranium enrichment up to 60 per cent, slightly lower than the 90 per cent weapon-grade threshold, is carried out in the Natanz facility. The facility has been operational since 2003, and is located nearly 250 kilometres to the south of Tehran. According to The Nuclear Threat Initiative, Natanz hosts both the Commercial Fuel Enrichment Plant (FEP) and the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP). Natanz has three underground facilities designed to house 50,000 centrifuges and six above-ground facilities, two of which are used for gas centrifuge assemblies. 
The Isfahan Nuclear Technology Centre in central Iran is the heart of Iran’s technical and scientific research. The facility transforms raw uranium into usable nuclear fuel. The Nuclear Threat Initiative describes Isfahan as “Iran’s largest nuclear research complex,” and “multi-purpose research center suspected of being the center of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons program.”  The facility was established in 1984 with Chinese assistance and operating three Chinese research Reactors, with over 3,000 scientists. 

B2 Bombers and Bunker Buster Bombs: 
How did the US carry out the strikes?

President Trump said Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities were ‘totally obliterated’ by military strikes. BBC reported that B-2 stealth bombers carried out the operation using GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOP), also known as ‘bunker buster' bombs. The bomb weighs 13000 kg and can go as deep as 18m in concrete or 61m in earth before exploding. B-2 stealth bomber is the only one in the US that can carry the 13000 kg GBU-57 bomb. It is known for advanced stealth technology, which renders them less detectable. It can hold two GBU-57s and has a crew of two pilots. It has a wingspan of 172 feet and a length of 69 feet. 

In March, six B-2 bombers were deployed to the Indian Ocean Island of Diego Garcia. On 21 June, Reuters reported that the US moved B-2 bombers to the Pacific Island of Guam. Officials did not confirm the specific launch location, but Reuters say that Diego Garcia is in a suitable position to conduct attacks on the Middle East. The B-2 stealth bomber is the only one in the US that can carry the 13000 kg GBU-57 bomb. It is known for advanced stealth technology, which renders them less detectable. It has a wingspan of 172 feet and a length of 69 feet. The bat-like structure and radar-absorbing materials contribute to its stealthiness. The radar cross-section of this aircraft is similar to that of a small bird. It can hold two GBU-57s and has a crew of two pilots with extensive use of automation. This technology was developed during the Cold War, and the production of each aircraft costs approximately $2.1 billion. The US has produced only 21 B-2 bombers. The range of the missile is over 6000 nautical miles without refuelling and has a payload capacity of more than 18000 kg, making it apt for long-range targets.

BBC reported that the US would have used this bomb to attack Fordo, which is located below the earth's surface. US officials said to CBS that two GBU-57 bombs were used for each target. The working mechanism is such that the aircraft releases the bomb 12 km above the target, allowing it to fall at high speed and be guided by a satellite to steer. The heavy weight leads to a large amount of kinetic energy that helps in penetrating the ground upon impact. The bomb then detonates to destroy the target. 

IAEA on Iran
What did the recent IAEA reports say about Iran and nuclear enrichment?

On 31 May, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) confidential report to member states stated that Iran carried out secret nuclear activities with material not disclosed to the agency at three locations that have long been under investigation. The report was requested by the IAEA’s 35-nation Board of Governors in November last year. The findings of the IAEA report are crucial as it allows for member states to push the board to declare Iran in violation of its non-proliferation obligations. 

On 12 June, a day before Israel launched its military strikes against Iran, the IAEA’s Board declared Iran in violation of its non-proliferation obligations. This is IAEA’s first such finding in nearly two decades. Reuters stated that the decision follows the “culmination of several festering stand-offs” between the IAEA and Iran, which have worsened since President Trump withdrew the US from the nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers during his first tenure in 2018. On the same day, Iran announced it had built a new uranium enrichment facility. The statement came as Iran’s retaliation against the IAEA declaration. 

On 19 June, IAEA’s Director General Rafael Grossi identified Isfahan as the location of a uranium enrichment plant that Iran said would soon open in retaliation. Isfahan is home to one of Iran's biggest nuclear facilities, and would have been its fourth enrichment plant in operation had it gone online. On 16 June, Grossi stated that the "underground spaces" at Isfahan did not seem to be affected by the Israeli attacks, wherein much of Iran's most highly enriched uranium has been stored. 

On 20 June, Director General Grossi told the UNSC that attacks have led to a steep decline in nuclear safety and security in Iran. He added that “Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur.”

On 22 June, the Director General stated that he will call an emergency meeting of the IAEA Board on 23 June, given the “urgent situation” in Iran following the US attacks. 
“I have repeatedly stated that nuclear facilities should never be attacked,” he added, reiterating his call for a diplomatic solution. IAEA reported that, as per regulatory authorities, there has been no increase in off-site radiation levels and no health impacts are expected beyond the targeted sites. 

What has been happening between Israel and Iran during the last one week?

On 13 June, Israel launched air and drone strikes on Iran's central nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz, defence infrastructure and civilian quarters and killed key figures including the supreme leader's adviser and former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ali Shamkhani, Iran's armed forces chief of staff, Mohammad Bagheri, Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami and the commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ air force Amir Ali Hajizadeh. Iran retaliated against these strikes. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the operations “will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." Israel’s Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon stated that the strikes on Iran were an "act of national preservation.” Iran’s Ambassador to the UN Amir Saeid Iravani accused the US of being complicit “beyond doubt.” 

On 14 June, Iran launched several ballistic missiles at Israel’s defence structures in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz responded to the strikes warning that “the citizens of Iran will pay a heavy price” and that “Tehran will burn” if Iran does not back down. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu added that “more is on the way.”

On 15 June, the crisis continued. Iran has reported at least 138 people killed since Friday. Israel’s authorities stated that at least 10 people were killed and more than 140 were injured. The Israeli military stated its goal to wipe out Iran’s nuclear and ballistic program and warned people living near weapon facilities to evacuate. 

On 16 June, Iran’s missiles struck Tel Aviv and the port city of Haifa. According to Reuters, eight people were killed and homes were destroyed. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said that Tehran would “pay the price and soon.” Israel targeted Iran’s Command Centre of the Quds Force. Iran’s foreign minister said: “Israel must halt its aggression, and absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue. It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like Netanyahu.”

On 17 June, Iran launched  missile attack on Israel. The Israeli military’s chief spokesperson stated that Israel had destroyed more than 120 missile launchers since the beginning of the crisis.

On 18 June, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that Iran will not accept Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender” and said: “The Americans should know that any US military intervention will undoubtedly be accompanied by irreparable damage."

On 19 June, Iran's missiles that targeted a military site hit the Soroka medical centre. 89 injuries were reported across Israel due to the overnight attacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu said that they would "exact the full price from the tyrants in Tehran." Israel's forces attacked the Arak heavy water reactor and the Natanz facility. Israel's Defence Minister stated that the elimination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is one of the war goals.

On 20 June, Iran's Supreme Leader said: "There is no room for negotiations with the US until Israeli aggression stops." The US President will decide their stance within two weeks, and the UK, France, Germany, and EU diplomats plan to meet Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.

On 21 June, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that the Palestine Corps of Iran's elite Quds Force Head Mohammed Said Izadi was eliminated in a precision strike. 

On 22 June, the US joined the Israeli assault and “obliterated” Iran’s main nuclear sites, Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi wrote on social media: “Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interests and people." Iran stated that US actions violated international law would have “everlasting consequences.” Revolutionary Guard elite stated that 40 missiles had been fired and the main part of their operational capabilities had not been utilised yet. The Israel Prime Minister congratulated Trump.

After giving a two-week warning, why did Trump decide to strike Iran? What does it mean?
The US strikes on three Iranian nuclear strikes mean the following. First, it brings the US directly into the ongoing military strikes by Israel on Iran. Since 13 June 2025, Israel has been targeting Iran. Besides Iran’s capital, Tehran, a primary target of the Israeli attacks has been on Iran’s nuclear sites, especially Natanz and Isfahan. Due to the geographic location and the lack of bunker busters, Israel could not target Fordo, where the main nuclear enrichment was believed to have taken place. While Netanyahu would have preferred the American engagement from the beginning, Trump was hesitant. Trump’s initial statements did not make it clear whether the US would engage directly in the ongoing attacks against Iran. The attacks on 22 June brings the US into the ongoing military strikes against Iran.

Second, the US-Iran direct military confrontation. Though there were numerous American covert operations against Iran, the last major American military action was in 1979. Some of the major covert American attacks include the cyber attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites, and more importantly, the killing of General Qassem Soleimani, commander of the IRGC Quds Force in Baghdad. The latest strike is also qualitatively significant; the attack is not an ordinary one. It has taken out Iran’s nuclear crown jewels and years of research. The latest American attack not just erases the past – in terms of the Iranian hard work in enriching Uranium. More importantly, it questions Iran’s future by erasing what could have been Tehran’s nuclear deterrence. Trump may believe that he has “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear sites, but he has renewed the conflict. 

Third, the American strikes on three nuclear sites deep inside Iran bring the US directly back into an active conflict in the Middle East. A primary American objective in the Middle East during recent years, across the Democrats-Republicans political divide in the US, has been to keep away from any direct engagement in the Middle East. One of the primary objectives of Trump’s Abraham Accords was to bring an end to the endless wars and get out of the Middle East conflicts. Trump’s latest strikes on Iran, bring the US back into the middle of Middle East conflicts.

Fourth, the pressure on Iran. By targeting the nuclear sites that were believed to be the core of Iran’s nuclear enrichment, the US has dented Iran’s future deterrence. More importantly, it was an attack on Iran’s sovereignty; the American B2 bombers not only hit Iran’s nuclear sites but also exposed Tehran’s military vulnerability. Iran’s foreign minister has been reported to have informed that he would be visiting Moscow for a meeting with President Putin before the next steps, and has warned of “everlasting consequences.” With a crucial negotiation card (nuclear enrichment) gone, how would Tehran respond to the US violation?

Fifth, the US military superiority and vulnerability. The fact that the US could fly into the Iranian airspace, using stealth and avoiding detection, and use bombs that could penetrate bunkers that were built to prevent such an attack, highlights the military arsenal it has. In a briefing after the attacks, the US Defence Secretary Hegseth said that no other country could have done what the US has. While the US may have the above superiority, it also has vulnerabilities. The US has numerous assets in the Middle East; it has military bases and American troops across the region – in Qatar, UAE, Iraq, Kuwait, Syria and Saudi Arabia. Trump may believe that the US has obliterated Iran’s nuclear sites, but it still has conventional and proxy assets that could undermine the American allies in the mainland and in the maritime domains.

The US Attack on Iran: A Backgrounder
A Chronology of Recent Developments

11 June 2025: The New York Times report speculated US withdrawal of diplomats from Iraq and the voluntary departure of military family members from the Middle East to be hinting at a potential Israeli strike on Iran.

12 June 2025:  IAEA declares Iran in breach of non-proliferation obligations.

13 June 2025: Israel strikes key nuclear facilities; Kills civilians, top officials including supreme leader's advisor, armed forces chief of staff, IRGC chief and six leading nuclear scientists.

14 June 2025: Following Iran’s counter-strike, Israel resumes attacks on Iran; Israel’s Defence Minister warned that “Tehran will burn.”

15 June 2025: Both countries attack each other, killing more than 140

16 June 2025: Iran strikes Tel Aviv and Haifa; Tehran will “pay the price and soon", says Israel's Defence Minister. 

17 June 2025: President Trump says that he wants a "real end" to the issue of nuclear activities in Iran.

18 June 2025:  Iran Supreme Leader rejects US President's call for "unconditional surrender".

19 June 2025:  Israel's forces attack the Arak heavy water reactor and Natanz facility. Eliminating Iran’s Supreme Leader is one of the war goals, states Israel's Defence Minister.

20 June 2025: Iran says no negotiations "until Israeli aggression stops."

21 June 2025: IRGC commander overseeing Iran's proxy militias killed; Iran's supreme leader names candidates to succeed him and other military leaders.

22 June 2025: The US bombs three major nuclear sites in Iran (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan), bringing the US directly into the Israel-Iran conflict. President Trump says it "totally obliterated" Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities, and asks Tehran to "make peace" or face "far greater" attacks. 

References

 

“B-2 bombers moving to Guam amid Middle East tensions, US officials say,” Reuters, 22 June 2025. 
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/b-2-bombers-moving-guam-amid-middle-east-tensions-us-officials-say-2025-06-21/

“Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant,” Nuclear Threat Initiative.
https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/fordow-fuel-enrichment-plant/

“Isfahan (Esfahan) Nuclear Technology Center (INTC),” Nuclear Threat Initiative.
https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/isfahan-esfahan-nuclear-technology-center-intc/

“Joint Statement on the Latest Iranian Nuclear Steps Reported by the IAEA - United States Department of State,” Joint Statement on the Latest Iranian Nuclear Steps Reported by the IAEA, 28 December 2023.
https://2021-2025.state.gov/joint-statement-on-the-latest-iranian-nuclear-steps-reported-by-the-iaea/#:~:text=The%20December%2026%2C%202023%20report%20by%20the%20IAEA,to%20levels%20observed%20between%20January%20and%20June%202023.

“Natanz Enrichment Complex,” Nuclear Threat Initiative.
https://www.nti.org/education-center/facilities/natanz-enrichment-complex/

“Update on Developments in Iran (4),” International Atomic Energy Agency, 22 June 2025. 
https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/pressreleases/update-on-developments-in-iran-4

“Update on Developments in Iran (2),” International Atomic Energy Agency, 21 June 2025.
https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/pressreleases/update-on-developments-in-iran-2

“Why the US used B-2 stealth bombers, costing $2.1 billion each, to strike Iran’s nuclear sites,” The Economic Times, 22 June 2025. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/why-the-us-used-b-2-stealth-bombers-costing-2-1-billion-each-to-strike-irans-nuclear-sites/articleshow/122000963.cms?from=mdr

Francois Murphy, “IAEA chief identifies Isfahan as Iran's planned uranium enrichment site,” Reuters, 20 June 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iaea-chief-identifies-isfahan-irans-planned-uranium-enrichment-site-2025-06-19/

Francois Murphy, “IAEA board declares Iran in breach of non-proliferation obligations,” Reuters, 12 June 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/iaea-board-declares-iran-breach-non-proliferation-duties-diplomats-say-2025-06-12/

Francois Murphy, “Damning IAEA report spells out past secret nuclear activities in Iran,” Reuters, 31 May 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/iaea-report-says-iran-had-secret-activities-with-undeclared-nuclear-material-2025-05-31/

Heather Williams, “Three Things Will Determine Iran’s Nuclear Future—Fordow Is Just One of Them,” Centre for Strategic & International Studies, 17 June 2025
https://www.csis.org/analysis/three-things-will-determine-irans-nuclear-future-fordow-just-one-them

Max Matza, “US moves stealth bombers as it considers military action against Iran - reports,” BBC, 22 June. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czry3m6xn5xo

About the NIAS TWT Team

Brighty Ann Sarah and R. Preetha are postgraduate students at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai. Santhiya. M and Aparna A Nair are undergraduate students at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai. M Kejia Reddy is an undergraduate student at the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry.


PREVIOUS COMMENTS

May 2026 | CWA # 2115

Aparna A Nair

The Putin-Xi Summit
Trade, Technology, Security, and Pipeline
May 2026 | CWA # 2114

Glynnis Winona B

What makes the UAE a global player?
Explaining the Governance, Economy, People, and Strategic Influence of a Small Middle Eastern State
May 2026 | CWA # 2113

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Sri Lanka and the US-Iran War 
Rising oil imports, Austerity measures and State capacity
May 2026 | CWA # 2111

NIAS Global Politics Team

The Trump-Xi Summit
The Africa Forward Summit 2026 I North Korea's Constitutional Amendment 2026
May 2026 | CWA # 2110

Aishal Hab Yousuf

The Trump-Xi Summit:
Managing Strategic Competition through Trade, Technology, and Diplomacy
May 2026 | CWA # 2092

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War, Week Ten
CW Column on Middle East: Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAE's Covert Manoeuvres
May 2026 | CWA # 2091

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflicts in the Middle East:
Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAEs Covert Manoeuvres
May 2026 | CWA # 2090

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Ten:
Fraying Ceasefire, Renewed Negotiations and the Risk of a Stalemate
May 2026 | CWA # 2088

Nithin V

King Charles's US Visit:
Emphasis on strong bilateral relations, democratic values and security cooperation
May 2026 | CWA # 2086

Aishal Hab Yousuf

UAEs Exit from OPEC:
Implications for the Middle East and the Energy Market
May 2026 | CWA # 2083

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Nine:
Deadlocked Negotiations, Competing Agendas and Domestic Pressure
May 2026 | CWA # 2082

Akshath Kaimal

Escalating Violence in Mali:
Between Ethnic Insurgencies, Jihadist Attacks, and Military Coups
April 2026 | CWA # 2079

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Japans New Defence Posture:
From Post-War Pacifism to Strategic Recalibration and Autonomy
April 2026 | CWA # 2074

Brighty Ann Sarah

Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:
Asymmetric Terms, Fragile Truce and Israeli Occupation
April 2026 | CWA # 2073

Akshath Kaimal

The US-Iran War, Week Eight:
A Fragile Ceasefire, Attempts to Control Hormuz and the Stalled Talks in Islamabad
April 2026 | CWA # 2072

Anu Maria Joseph

Three Years of War in Sudan
Prolonged Stalemate, Humanitarian Cost, External Interventions and Regional Fallouts
April 2026 | CWA # 2069

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine
Expanding Drone Warfare, Russia's Strategic Patience and Ukraine's Diplomatic Outreach
April 2026 | CWA # 2068

Femy Francis

China-Japan Tensions
Escalating Defence Posturing and Economic Decoupling
April 2026 | CWA # 2067

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa
Continuing Conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan and DR Congo, Security issues in Nigeria, and Political Instability in Madagascar
April 2026 | CWA # 2066

Akshath Kaimal

The Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict
Recurrent Clashes, Defiant Taliban, Contesting Narratives and Emerging Chinas Role
April 2026 | CWA # 2065

Lakshmi Venugopal Menon

The Middle East (JanMar 2026):
The US-Iran War, Israel-Hamas Conflict and their interconnected fallouts
April 2026 | CWA # 2064

Anwesha Ghosh

Afghanistan (JanMar 2026):
Gender Repression, Leadership Rifts, Regional Realignments and Clashes with Pakistan
April 2026 | CWA # 2063

Ramya B

Russia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Assertive Military Posture, Attempts for an Economic Turnaround and Search for Partners
April 2026 | CWA # 2062

Himani Pant

Europe (Jan-Mar 2026)
Trade diversification & FTAs, Increased defence spending, Tightening irregular migration and Economic slowdown
April 2026 | CWA # 2061

S Shaji

Africa (Jan-Mar 2026)
Elections, Civil Wars, Militancy and Peace Initiatives
April 2026 | CWA # 2059

Adarsh Vijay

India and the World(Jan-Mar 2026)
Maintaining Strategic Autonomy, Balancing the US relations and Resetting the China ties
April 2026 | CWA # 2058

Nishchal N Pandey & Mahesh Raj Bhatta

Nepal (Jan-Mar 2026)
Political Upheaval, Generational Change and Economic Uncertainty
April 2026 | CWA # 2057

Bibhu Prasad Routray

Myanmar (Jan-Mar 2026)
An Illegitimate Regimes Consolidation Game
April 2026 | CWA # 2056

Ashik J Bonofer

Southeast Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Deteriorating situation in Myanmar, Philippines as the ASEAN Chair, New government in Thailand, and Economic & Environmental challenges
April 2026 | CWA # 2055

Haans J Freddy

East Asia (Jan-Mar 2026)
Chinas military operations near Taiwan, Japan-China tensions and South Koreas security challenges
April 2026 | CWA # 2054

Amrita Jash

Chinas External Landscape (Jan-Mar 2026):
Regional assertion, Pragmatic recalibration with the West and Avoiding military entanglement in the Middle East
April 2026 | CWA # 2052

Shreya Upadhyay

The United States(Jan-Mar2026)
Tariffs, Ukraine, Iran and Operationalization of Trumps World Order
March 2026 | CWA # 2039

Femy Francis

Trump-Xi Meeting
Why did Trump reschedule it? What does that mean?
March 2026 | CWA # 2035

Akshath Kaimal

Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict
Broken ceasefire, Expanding military strikes and Worsening humanitarian situation
March 2026 | CWA # 2033

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal after elections:
Five major challenges for the new government
March 2026 | CWA # 2024

Lekshmi MK

The UN and the Iran-US War
UNSC Resolution 2817 between Clear and Unified Message and Manifest Injustice
March 2026 | CWA # 2023

Femy Francis

Chinas Two Sessions 2026
New Five-Year Plan, Ethnic Unity Law, and an Enhanced Defence Budget
March 2026 | CWA # 2019

Akshath Kaimal

Rising Violence in Nigeria
Limited State Capacity, Multiple Actors, and a Complex Security Environment
March 2026 | CWA # 2012

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine
Long-range strikes, Defence adaptation and the EUs energy dependence
March 2026 | CWA # 2010

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal Elections 2026
The Rise of the New and the Fall of the Old
March 2026 | CWA # 2009

Sreemaya Nair

Nepal Elections 2026
Rise of a new leadership and Reset in political landscape
March 2026 | CWA # 2004

Akshath Kaimal

The Forgotten South Sudan Conflict
Instability returns, with a fragile peace agreement, uptick in violence and limited international engagement
March 2026 | CWA # 2003

Yesasvi Koganti

PM Modis Visit to Israel
From bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership
February 2026 | CWA # 1998

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Sudan
Response to the genocide call and the threats of a regional spillover
February 2026 | CWA # 1985

Abhimanyu Solanki

Basant in Pakistan
The return of Basant, and what it signifies
February 2026 | CWA # 1977

Anu Maria Joseph

Violence in Nigeria
US military deployment amidst worsening insurgency
February 2026 | CWA # 1976

Lekshmi MK

The War in Ukraine
The Geneva Talks and Growing Negotiation Asymmetry
December 2025 | CWA # 1971

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan Budget 2025-26
Legislating stabilisation under IMF discipline and coalition constraints
December 2025 | CWA # 1970

Aparna A Nair

Pakistan & China
Ten Years of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
November 2025 | CWA # 1968

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan and the US
A New opening, or another cycle?
February 2026 | CWA # 1959

Yesasvi Koganti

UK and China
PM Keir Starmers visit and the Recalibration of Economic, Strategic, and Domestic ties
January 2026 | CWA # 1946

R Preetha

The Davos Summit 2026
Five Major Takeaways from The World Economic Forum
December 2025 | CWA # 1931

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1924

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025
August 2025 | CWA # 1801

R Preetha

28 August 1963
Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech and the Civil Rights Movement in the US
August 2025 | CWA # 1790

GP Team

The World This Week#323-324
The Trump-Putin meeting & the US-China tariff extension
August 2025 | CWA # 1780

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

Trump tariffs:
Weaponization of access to the US economy
August 2025 | CWA # 1779

GP Team

The World This Week#322
US tariffs on India, Brazil and Canada & the EU-US trade deal
August 2025 | CWA # 1778

Lekshmi MK

28 July 1914
Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia, starting the First World War
July 2025 | CWA # 1770

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

Pakistan-Afghanistan relations:
Why the focus on terrorism, refugees, and Uzbekistan as the third partner?
July 2025 | CWA # 1769

GP Team

The World This Week#321
Indian PM Modi's visit to the Maldives I Elections to the Upper House in Japan
July 2025 | CWA # 1762

Lekshmi MK

Ocean Darkening: 
What is the phenomenon? What are its effects? And who are more vulnerable?
July 2025 | CWA # 1749

R Preetha

Africa as the Hunger Epicenter
Of the 13 Global Hunger Hotspots, 8 are in Africa: Five reasons why
July 2025 | CWA # 1748

GP Team

The World This Week #318
PM Modi’s Visit to Trinidad and Tobago & Ghana, One big beautiful bill, and Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting
July 2025 | CWA # 1744

Chittrothu Vaihali

EU-Canada Summit 2025
What is security and defence partnership all about?
July 2025 | CWA # 1742

IPRI Team

Conflict Weekly # 287-88
The 12 Day War and the Congo-Rwanda Peace Deal
July 2025 | CWA # 1738

Fleur Elizabeth Philip

Thailand and Cambodia
What was the phone call between PM Shinawatra and President of Senate Hun Sen? What is the border dispute between the two? Why has this become an issue?
June 2025 | CWA # 1735

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025:
Trump making Europe great again
June 2025 | CWA # 1734

GP Team

The World This Week #317
NATO Summit 2025 and Russia-Mali bilateral agreements
June 2025 | CWA # 1733

Ananya Dinesh

China and the Pacific Islands 
What was the recent China-PIC joint statement about? What it says, and what it means?
June 2025 | CWA # 1728

M Kejia

G7 Summit 2025:
The Focus on the Middle East and Trade negotiations
June 2025 | CWA # 1726

GP Team

The World This Week #316
China-Central Asia Summit in Kazakhstan, and the G7 Summit in Canada
June 2025 | CWA # 1725

Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair & M Kejia

Operation Midnight Hammer: US bombs three nuclear sites in Iran
What were the three Iranian nuclear sites that were targeted? What are the B2 Bombers and Bunker Buster Bombs? What do these attacks mean? What Next?
June 2025 | CWA # 1724

IPRI Team

Conflict Weekly #286
The Spiralling Israel-Iran Crisis, and the Dangerous Hunger Hotspots
June 2025 | CWA # 1721

Rizwana Banu S and Santhiya M

Who are the Afrikaners?
Why is Trump interested in the Afrikaner question in South Africa?
June 2025 | CWA # 1720

Lekshmi MK

New WMO Report on Arctic Warming
What are the social, economic and environmental implications of Arctic warming
June 2025 | CWA # 1719

J Yamini  

China’s EV Surge
What contributes to the rise of BYD
June 2025 | CWA # 1717

J Yamini

Gender Violence in Pakistan:
What are the larger issues in the Noor Mukadam case?
June 2025 | CWA # 1715

Femy Francis

The US-China:
On Tariffs, Rare Earths and Visas
June 2025 | CWA # 1713

GP Team

The World This Week #315
The UN Ocean Conference in France and the US-China Meeting in London
June 2025 | CWA # 1709

IPRI Team

Conflict Weekly #284-285
Cambodia-Thailand Border Tensions, Protests in the US, and the Indigenous Māori question in New Zealand
June 2025 | CWA # 1705

GP Team

The World This Week #314
Elections in South Korea and Poland I China and the Pacific Island Countries I Bangladesh Election Announcement 2026
June 2025 | CWA # 1700

R Preetha

Ethiopia bans the TPLF
What does the TPLF ban mean for the Pretoria agreement? What next for Ethiopia?
June 2025 | CWA # 1694

Aashish Ganeshan

The US:
Harvard vs Trump Administration
June 2025 | CWA # 1691

GP Team

The World This Week #313
China-ASEAN-GCC Summit I President Macron's visit to South East Asia I Trump Vs Harvard
May 2025 | CWA # 1690

GP Team

The World This Week #312
Elections in Romania, Portugal & Poland I UK-EU Summit
May 2025 | CWA # 1689

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine
Continuing Russia’s Aerial Attacks, despite exchange of prisoners
May 2025 | CWA # 1688

Ayan Datta

Gaza
The Humanitarian Crisis and Israel’s Renewed Offensive
May 2025 | CWA # 1685

Aparna A Nair

UK-EU Summit:
First step towards a reset
May 2025 | CWA # 1683

Aashish Ganeshan

Elections in Portugal:
The Rise of Chega Party and the Search for Political Stability
May 2025 | CWA # 1679

Aashish Ganeshan

US in the Middle Easr
Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE
May 2025 | CWA # 1678

Gauri Gupta

China in Latin America
China-CELAC forum: Strengthening ties with Latin America and Caribbean
May 2025 | CWA # 1677

GP Team

The World This Week #310-311
China in Latin America and the Carribbean I Trump's Middle East Visit I Denmark as the new Arctic Chair
May 2025 | CWA # 1675

Lekshmi MK

Turkey:
PKK disbands after 40 years of armed insurgency
May 2025 | CWA # 1673

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine:
The Discussion in Turkiye and the Elusive Ceasefire
May 2025 | CWA # 1672

D Suba Chandran

India and Pakistan:
De-escalation and the “New Normal”
May 2025 | CWA # 1671

Abhiruchi Chowdhury

US, Ukraine and Russia:
Air attacks amidst a Minerals deal and Ceasefire Proposals
May 2025 | CWA # 1670

Fleur Elizabeth Philip

Singapore Elections in 2025:
People’s Action Party (PAP) Wins, Again
May 2025 | CWA # 1667

R Preetha and Brighty Ann Sarah

East Asia:
Tough Tariff Negotiations with the US
May 2025 | CWA # 1666

Padmashree Anandhan

The US-Ukraine
The mineral deal with the US
May 2025 | CWA # 1665
Conflict Weekly # 280-81
India-Pakistan De-escalation I Ukraine Discussion in Istanbul I The Battle over Port Sudan I Disbanding of PKK in Turkiye I France-Algeria Diplomatic Tensions
May 2025 | CWA # 1663

R Preetha

Canada Elections 2025:
What do the results convey? What next for Mark Carney?
March 2024 | CWA # 1251

NIAS Africa Team

Africa This Week
February 2024 | CWA # 1226

NIAS Africa Team

Africa This Week
October 2023 | CWA # 1091

Annem Naga Bindhu Madhuri

Issues for Europe
July 2023 | CWA # 1012

Bibhu Prasad Routray

Myanmar continues to burn
December 2022 | CWA # 879

Padmashree Anandhan

The Ukraine War
November 2022 | CWA # 838

Rishma Banerjee

Tracing Europe's droughts
March 2022 | CWA # 705

NIAS Africa Team

In Focus: Libya
December 2021 | CWA # 630

GP Team

Europe in 2021
October 2021 | CWA # 588

Abigail Miriam Fernandez

TLP is back again
August 2021 | CWA # 528

STIR Team

Space Tourism
September 2019 | CWA # 162

Lakshman Chakravarthy N

5G: A Primer
December 2018 | CWA # 71

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal
December 2018 | CWA # 70

Nasima Khatoon

The Maldives
December 2018 | CWA # 69

Harini Madhusudan

India
December 2018 | CWA # 68

Sourina Bej

Bangladesh
December 2018 | CWA # 67

Seetha Lakshmi Dinesh Iyer

Afghanistan