Conflict Weekly

Conflict Weekly
Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Attacks and a Militant Attack in Kashmir

IPRI Team
25 October 2024
Photo Source: Aksam; X (@dis_timu)

Conflict Weekly #251, 25 October 2024, Vol.5, No.43
An initiative by NIAS-IPRI
 

Samruddhi Pathak and Akriti Sharma


The Israel-Hezbollah-Hamas War in the Middle East
Samruddhi Pathak
 
In the news
On 22 October, the Times of Israel reported that the drone launched by Hezbollah on 18 October had caused damage to Israle’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Caesarea. 

On 20 October, IDF Colonel Ehsan Daksa, commander of the 401 Armoured Brigade, was killed in Gaza’s Jabalia by Hamas fighters in northern Gaza’s Jabalia. He was killed by a Hamas Improvised Explosive Device (IED). It exploded while he was dismounting his tank. He was the fifth high-ranking IDF officer to be killed in the Gaza War. According to the New York Times, the continuing deaths of IDF officers indicate that Israel has not fully degraded Hamas’ fighting capabilities because it remains a powerful guerilla group in Gaza.

On 19 October, IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a televised briefing: “The Israeli Air Force carried out a series of precise strikes on these Hezbollah financial strongholds.” According to the IDF, it was underneath a hospital in south Beirut. 

On 18 October, a drone fired by Hezbollah from Lebanon exploded in the central seaside town of Caesarea. It targeted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s private home, his office said. 

Issues at large
First, Israel's continuing attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel has increased targeted attacks on Hezbollah. The IDF assassinated the leader of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah and now his heir as well. Despite being criticised by the international community over civilian killings, Israel is continuing its offensive in the region.

Second, Hezbollah's counter-attack. Hezbollah has enhanced its capabilities by installing precision-guided missiles and anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles. Despite their leader and heir being assassinated, the non-state armed actor has not toned down their attacks on Israel.  

Third, Israel's delicate distinction between civilians and militants. The IDF spokesperson, Rear Admiral Hagari, asserted that Israel is at war with Hezbollah and not the Lebanese people, adding that the IDF would not launch a strike on the hospital. However, more than 1,600 lives have been claimed by Israeli attacks in Lebanon. More Lebanese people have been killed than militants. 

Fourth, international response. Heads of the UN World Food Programme and UNICEF urged Israel to let the humanitarian aid reach the civilians in Gaza. However, Israel is continuing its stance that Hamas is blocking the aid and that the aid is strengthening Hamas. It maintains a similar strategy for carrying out attacks in Lebanon. 
 
In perspective
Despite the leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah and IDF officials being attacked and assassinated, the warring parties have shown no sign of de-escalation. Instead, the intensity of the war has further increased. At this juncture, all actors directly involved in the conflict will likely look towards an escalation. Escalation would be through surprise attacks. The war is not slowing down as Hezbollah and Hamas are also intensifying their attacks. Ceasefire talks remain off the table. Important players like Iran and the US must assert influence for diplomatic solutions.

The international community is turning critical of Israel’s attacks in Lebanon. France has announced that it will not supply weapons to Israel. Gradually, with many countries imposing embargoes against Israel, it will face isolation. Israel's war in Gaza and Lebanon is also causing a divide between the US and the rest of the West. For the war to de-escalate, financial isolation of actors is also necessary.


India: Militant attack on infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir
Akriti Sharma
 
In the news
On 20 October, seven people, including a doctor and six construction workers, were killed in a terrorist attack on the ongoing construction site of Z Morh tunnel in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF), affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the attack. 

On 20 October, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, said on X: "Very sad news of a dastardly & cowardly attack on non-local labourers at Gagangir in Sonamarg region. These people were working on a key infrastructure project in the area.”

On 20 October, the Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah said on X: “The dastardly terror attack on civilians in Gagangir, J&K, is a despicable act of cowardice. Those involved in this heinous act will not be spared and will face the harshest response from our security forces.”

Issues at large
First, targeted attack following a newly elected government in J&K. This was the second attack since the first elections took place in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. On 17 October, a dead migrant worker was in Shopian. With peaceful elections taking place a few days before, this was a move by TRF to establish itself in the region.  

Second, the difficulty of combating TRF. The TRF, an ally of LeT, has been active in the past few years. It has targeted migrant workers, Kashmiri pandits, and government employees as a part of its strategy to hinder peace and stability in the region. Although the security forces have conducted vast security operations to kill the terrorists, the TRF continues to operate and is a challenge to the security forces of the region. TRF is also known for being funded heavily and has a high recruitment rate.

Third, targeted attacks are on the rise. Targeted attacks on migrant workers have been on the rise for the past few years. The targets have been teachers, migrant workers, village councillors, policemen, and civilians. There has been a surge in targeted killings since the abrogation of the A-370, according to the South Asian Terrorism Portal. The surge has occurred in the Jammu region more than in Kashmir and has spread to other areas than Rajouri and Poonch, including Doda, Kathua, and Reasi.

Fourth, the Z-Morh tunnel project and its significance. The Z-Morh tunnel project is in the Gaganeer village of the Ganderbal district and is part of the Zoji-la tunnel project. It aims to provide all-weather connectivity to Sonamarg (a key tourist destination). Z-Morh tunnel is 6.4 kilometres long, which is crucial for connecting Sonamarg, which is mostly inaccessible during the winter due to heavy snow.

Fifth, targeted attacks on infrastructure projects. The attacks have targeted a critical infrastructural development project in the region, aiming to provide all-season connectivity to the Srinagar-Leh highway. The tunnel is instrumental for quick military access to Ladakh, the gateway to two strategic choke points, eastern Ladakh and the Siachen base camp with China and Pakistan. The government of India is undertaking several infrastructural projects in the region to enhance connectivity and access. This is a first-of-its-kind attack on the strategically key infrastructural project.
 
In perspective
First, another blow to restoring normalcy in the region. The attack has exposed the infrastructure projects to vulnerability in the region. This is a move to hinder peace and stability in the region, as the elections were peacefully conducted a few days ago. With heavy deployment of the security forces in the region, the terrorists have been able to retain. This challenges the security of other ongoing strategically crucial projects in the region.

Second, a challenge to the newly elected government. It will be challenging for the Omar Abdullah-led government to combat the terror attacks and operational outfits in the region. Terrorist outfits like TRF have reestablished themselves through violent means and will continue to do so. While the government has been able to provide security in the urban areas, rural and peripheral areas remain vulnerable to terrorism, demanding a need to combat terrorist networks.


Issues in Peace and Conflict This Week:
Regional Roundups

Rohini Reenum, Femy Francis, Anu Maria Joseph, Padmashree Anandhan, Ayan Datta, Samruddi Pathak, Sayeka Ghosh and Neha Tresa George

China, East, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific
China: Beijing objects to opening the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in Mumbai
On 17 October, China lodged diplomatic protests against opening the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in Mumbai. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning stated: “There was but one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory.” China perceives this development as a breach of the one-China principle. The government objected to India and Taiwan holding their first naval exercise. Mao called upon India to “strictly abide by the commitments it has made” and not engage with Taiwan at the official level. The latest office in Mumbai makes three offices that TECC has in India. This might further complicate diplomatic ties between the two Asian giants.

China: Protest against Myanmar over attack on consulate in Mandalay
On 21 October, SCMP reported that the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed shock over an attack on the Chinese consulate in the city of Mandalay in Myanmar. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian informed that China has lodged a solemn protest with Myanmar over the attack. The spokesperson urged Myanmar to enhance the security provided for Chinese institutions, projects, and personnel in Myanmar, and prevent similar incidents. Lin urged authorities in Myanmar to investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice. Following the attack, the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Mandalay issued a security warning, urging all Chinese nationals, companies, and organizations to pay attention to local situations and improve security measures.

South Korea: Plans to monitor North Korean troops deployed by Russia
On 22 October, The Korea Times reported that South Korea is considering sending a team of personnel to Ukraine to monitor North Korean troops deployed by Russia. Seoul's spy agency said: “North Korea sent some 1,500 special forces to Russia this month to take part in the war in Ukraine. The North is expected to dispatch a total of 12,000 troops from an elite special force’s unit, according to an intelligence source. There is a possibility that personnel will be sent to Ukraine to monitor the tactics and combat capabilities of North Korean special forces dispatched in support of Russia.” Additionally, the government is considering giving weapons support to Ukraine. This is a shift in South Korea’s policy where they avoided openly providing lethal aid. The Korea Times quoted an unknown source: “While watching signs of North Korea-Russia military cooperation, the response measures will be taken in steps. Rather than lethal weapons, defensive weapons will be prioritized, and even if lethal aid is provided, a way to send them indirectly will be first considered.” 

North Korea: Telegram photo shows Russian and North Korean flags together on the battlefield
On 22 October, The Korea Times reported on a pro-Russia Telegram account with a photograph showing the Russian and North Korean flags together on a Ukrainian battlefield. The photograph was posted by a blogger named @rvvoenkor_bot on 21 October. It cautioned that the North Korean flag has recently been raised on a hill at the mine near the city, where North Korean soldiers are believed to be stationed. On 21 October, Russian Ambassador to South Korea Georgy Zinoviev told First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun: “The cooperation with North Korea is not directed against South Korea's security interests and claimed that the cooperation is carried out within the framework of international law.” 

North Korea: Pyongyang Troops’ presence reported in Russia’s Far East region
On 20 October, The Korea Herald reported on evidence of North Korean troops' presence in Russia's Far East region. The intelligence authorities of Seoul and Kyiv stated that North Korea is formulating to deploy its soldiers to the front line in the ongoing Ukraine War, termed to be Pyongyang's first major involvement in an international conflict. Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communication and Information Security on 19 October released an audio-visual showing North Korean soldiers lined up and receiving uniforms and equipment. Meanwhile, CNN revealed surveys with uniforms and gear written in Russian and Korean languages. Additionally, South Korea's National Intelligence Service spotted that the soldiers were transported via seven Russian naval vessels between 8 and 13 October. Meanwhile, the US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, said he could not immediately confirm the media report but said that Washington would investigate the case further. He stated: "I can't confirm those reports at this point, if that's true, it's serious, (it's) something that we'll continue to watch. We know that (Putin) continues to lose a lot of people, reiterating his earlier estimate that at least 350,000 people have been killed or wounded since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. "

Myanmar: Junta troops amass in the Myawaddy town
On 22 October, The Irrawaddy reported on the deployment of junta troops in Karen State’s Myawaddy town, a major trading hub along the border with Thailand. The junta was reported to have deployed up to 1,000 troops to defend the border town against expected resistance attacks. The ethnic Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the armed wing of the Karen National Union (KNU), and allied People’s Defence Forces (PDFs), the armed wing of the civilian National Unity Government (NUG) have been guarding the town for months. This occupation came after the KNLA and PDF captured a junta base on Swal Taw Mountain in Lay Kay Kaw town south of Myawaddy.

South Asia
Pakistan: Protestors barred from rallying against enforced disappearances in Karachi
On 20 October, law enforcement forces blocked activists trying to protest inside the Karachi Press Club (KPC). The protestors belonged to the groups including Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and Voice for Missing Persons. They held banners reading "Ending silence on enforced disappearances" and attempted marching towards the KPC. However, police blocked all roads that led to the venue, citing security reasons. The leader of the protesting group, Sammi Dean Baloch, told the media that nine students were taken away. However, the protesters were unarmed civilians displaying pictures or portraits of the missing persons. The BYC alleged that the police carried out a baton charge. Meanwhile, the Karachi Press Club president Saeed Sarbazi, secretary Shoaib Ahmed, and other members condemned the police’s acts. The Press Club stated: “Any attempt to restrict individual or collective rights to protest by blocking access to the press club will be met with strong condemnation. The actions of the Sindh government and law enforcement mirror those of a dictatorial regime. The use of Section 144 to justify blocking roads is completely unacceptable. Sindh's governor and chief minister must urgently address this critical issue."

India: US calls for swift investigation on assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun
On 22 October, the US called upon India to ensure accountability after investigating the involvement of Indian nationals in the assassination of dual US and Canadian citizen and leader of the Sikh separatist group, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. A US official said: “We have been emphasising that we hope that India will move as quickly as possible through their investigative process.” However, the Indian embassy did not respond to the US statement.

India: China agrees on border de-escalation agreement near LAC
On 21 October, BBC News reported that the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of India had agreed upon patrolling agreements to de-escalate tensions on the India-China border. The Foreign Secretary of India, Vikram Misri, informed about the agreement, which would lead to disengagement and resolution of issues in the areas in the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which arose in 2020 after the Galwan clashes. However, Misri did not provide any details about the disengagement process, and whether it would cover all the points of conflict on the border. The new agreement is a breakthrough in talks between China and India over reducing tensions along the border. The clashes in Galwan, Sikkim, and Tawang have adversely impacted bilateral and business relations between China and India.

Bangladesh: Floods in 19 districts affect one million people
On 22 October, Bangladesh's Disaster Management and Relief Adviser, Farooq-e-Azam, announced that the recent floods across Bangladesh led to the loss of about BDT 14,269.68 crore, affecting 942,811 individuals. He highlighted the high degree of crop damage due to the current year's floods and the impact on the market for essential commodities. He stated that rehabilitation for those affected has started, and committees at the central, district, and upazila levels have been constituted to monitor the relief efforts. He announced that the government allocated about BDT 7.34 crore in assistance, about BDT 69.45 lakh for housing and BTD 1.80 crore for children and livestock sustenance.

Bangladesh: Cyclone Dana may hit India and Bangladesh on 24 October
On 21 October, according to the India Meteorological Department, Cyclone Dana is set to cause landfalls along the coastlines of India and Bangladesh on 24 October. The cyclone is likely to affect the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha, and the districts of Satkhira and Khulna in Bangladesh. According to meteorologists, the most severe threat posed by the cyclone may be a storm surge, landfalls and high tides.

The Middle East and Africa
Israel: Seven people arrested alleged to be Iranian spies
On 22 October, the BBC reported that Israel had arrested seven people accused of being Iranian spies. Israel has alleged that they were planning to carry out attacks at Iran’s behest. Israel’s domestic security agency, Shin Bet, revealed that the group was planning to assassinate a senior Israeli scientist and a city mayor “under Iranian direction.” The statement added: “This investigation underscores Iran’s efforts to recruit Israeli citizens for terrorism.” This is the second such arrest made in the week. All those arrested had immigrated from Azerbaijan and are accused of carrying out at least 600 espionage missions in Israel.

Israel: IDF kills Yahya Sinwar in Rafah; Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran issue defiant responses
On 18 October, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) stated that it killed Hamas Political Bureau Chairperson Yahya Sinwar in Rafah’s Tal-al-Sultan area. IDF On the same day, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Sinwar’s death marked the “beginning of the end” of Gaza. While IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that Israel was taking measures to increase the humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, he and Netanyahu stressed that military operations would continue until Israel achieved all its goals, including securing the around 100 Israeli hostages in Gaza who were still alive. Separately, Hamas Political Bureau member Basem Naim confirmed the death, stating that every time Israel assassinated Hamas leaders, the armed group “became stronger and more popular, and these leaders became an icon for future generations to continue the journey towards a free Palestine.” Hezbollah expressed condolences for Sinwar and vowed to start a new phase of war against Israel, referring to its recent use of precision-guided rockets and suicide drones against Israel. Additionally, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian called Sinwar’s death “a deep loss” but added that it “will not weaken the resistance” against Israel. Iran’s Mission to the UN upheld the Hamas leader as an example of the Muslim world, stating, “…when Muslims look up to martyr Sinwar standing on the battlefield — in combat attire and out in the open, not in a hideout, facing the enemy — the spirit of resistance will be strengthened.” 

Israel: IDF strikes and identifies Hezbollah “financial hubs” as it targets Netanyahu residence
On 21 October, the IDF alleged that Hezbollah had built bunkers under Beirut's Al Saleh hospital and was using civilian buildings as their "finance hub." While emphasising that the IDF would not strike the hospital, IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that "the Israeli Air Force (IAF) carried out a series of precise strikes on these Hezbollah financial strongholds," with their primary targets being "an underground vault with tens of millions of dollars in cash and gold. The money was being used to finance Hezbollah's attacks on Israel." Furthermore, Hagari stated the IAF struck around 30 targets across Lebanon, including those linked to Al-Qard-Al-Hassan, a charity that Hagari alleged was a Hezbollah front. Previously, on 19 October, according to the Times of Israel, a Hezbollah drone struck Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in eastern Israel’s Caesarea town. There were no casualties. Netanyahu claimed that “agents of Iran” made a “bitter mistake” by trying to assassinate him. Reiterating his war aims, he said: “We will continue to eliminate your (Hamas and Hezbollah) terrorists, we will return our hostages from Gaza, we will return our residents in the north.” Hezbollah stated that it took “full, complete and exclusive responsibility for the Caesarea operation targeting… Netanyahu.” 

Israel: Hamas kill IDF officer in Gaza
On 20 October, IDF Colonel Ehsan Daksa, commander of the 401st Armoured Brigade, was killed in Gaza’s Jabalia by Hamas fighters in northern Gaza’s Jabaliya. He was killed by a Hamas Improvised Explosive Device (IED), which exploded near him as he was dismounting his tank. Daksa was the fifth IDF officer and the highest-ranking one to be killed in the Gaza War. According to the New York Times, the continuing deaths of IDF officers indicated that Israel had not fully degraded Hamas’ fighting capabilities because it remained a powerful guerilla group.

Africa: Governance progress stagnant since 2022, says Ibrahim Index of African Governance 
On 23 October, the Ibrahim Index of African Governance released its latest edition. It found that governance progress in Africa has been stagnant since 2022. It reports a governance backsliding in 21 African countries, almost half of the continent. Linking the governance backsliding with violence, philanthropist Mo Ibrahim was quoted by Al Jazeera: "If there is deterioration in governance, if there is corruption, if there is marginalisation … people are going to pick up arms." Referring to the civil war in Sudan and the series of coups in West Africa, he highlighted "a huge arc of instability and conflicts" in the continent. The report says there were improvements in 33 countries in infrastructure and women's equality. However, the scores went down in areas of rule of law, rights, political participation and security. 

Africa: Global warming causing deadly floods, warns WWA
On 23 October, the World Weather Attribution (WWA) said that anthropogenic climate change, caused by the use of fossil fuels, has increased global warming, causing heavy rains across the Niger and Lake Chad basins. The exceptional rainfall, 5-20 per cent worse this year, would potentially cause a humanitarian catastrophe in the region. According to OCHA, the floods have killed about 1,500 people and displaced more than one million in West and Central Africa this year. WWA warned that the conditions would continue if the global temperature increases to two degrees Celsius. 

Sudan: Russian cargo plane shot down in Darfur
On 22 October, BBC quoted the Russian embassy in Sudan that a Russian cargo plane with a crew was shot down in Darfur, where the civil war between the SAF and the RSF has been ongoing. According to the Russian embassy, the aircraft, Ilyushin Il-76, was delivering equipment and medicine to el-Fasher city. On 21 October, the Rapid Support Force (RSF) claimed that they had shot down a Russian plane flown by the Egyptian military, which was bombing civilians. Egypt denied the accusations. 

South Sudan: One million affected by floods, says OCHA
On 21 October, BBC quoted OCHA that over a million people in South Sudan have been affected by the floods. In the Pibor region, at least 112,000 people have been displaced due to the heavy floods. According to OCHA, the floods have disrupted aid supply routes, affecting nearly 500,000. 

Somalia: Seven people killed in a suicide bomb attack
On 18 October, Al Jazeera reported that at least seven people were killed in a suicide bomb attack in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu. The attack happened outside a police training school. Al Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack. 

Kenya: UNHCR raises concerns over repatriation of Turkish nationals
On 21 October, UNHCR raised concerns over the repatriation of refugees from Kenya to Turkey. Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that four Turkish refugees were repatriated at the request of the Turkish government. This comes after several Turkish citizens and a British national were kidnapped by armed men the previous week. The UNHCR stated: “It urges the Government of Kenya to abide by their international legal obligations, and in particular, to respect the principle of non-refoulment [forced return of refugees], which protects asylum-seekers and refugees from any measure that could lead to their removal to a place where their life or freedom would be threatened.” The four migrants are said to be followers of the Gulen movement, an Islamic community which runs schools in Kenya and worldwide. The group has been blamed for the 2026 coup attempt in Turkey. Turkey’s government has not responded yet. 

Mozambique: Violent protests over electoral fraud
On 21 October, the riot police in Mozambique fired tear gas to disperse the masses protesting against election fraud. This comes after two opposition leaders of the Podemos party were shot dead on 19 October. The EU, the AU, and the UN condemned the incident. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on all "Mozambicans, including political leaders and their supporters, to remain calm, exercise restraint and reject all forms of violence." The AU Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed "deep concern" over "reported cases of post-election violence and in particular the recent killings." 

Ghana: Parliament suspended after chaos over majority row
On 22 October, Ghana’s parliament speaker suspended proceedings indefinitely after chaos over the parliamentary majority. The previous week, four Members of Parliament (MPs) defected to the opposition party to run for the 7 December general election. However, speaker Alban Bagbin declared defection unconstitutional while in power. Despite being challenged legally, the new changes have put the opposition National Democratic Congress in the majority in the parliament. The Supreme Court directed the speaker to suspend his declaration until the court verdict. Meanwhile, the situation worsened when the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and NDC tried to occupy the seats of the majority party during the first sitting after the Supreme Court directive. 

Ghana: Illegal gold mining causing environmental impacts, BBC story
On 20 October, a BBC story discussed illegal gold mining and its environmental impacts in Ghana. According to the report, the illegal miners have been using mercury to extract gold on a massive scale in forests and farms. This has led to land degradation and water pollution. It says that the waters in the region are so thick and discoloured that the group WaterAid calls it "ecocide." Ghana is the sixth largest exporter of gold in the world. Recently, protests have been held in the capital, Accra, demanding that the government end illegal mining. The hashtags, including #stopgalamseynow and #freethecitizens, became popular and mobilised the young people. However, the government has taken too little action to curb the situation. 

Europe and The Americas
Turkey: Terrorist attack in Ankara
On 23 October, a terrorist attack was carried out against the Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TUSAS) facilities in the capital Ankara. The Minister of the Interior of Türkiye, Ali Yerlikaya, informed that three individuals were killed in the attack, and two terrorists were neutralized. TUSAS is responsible for the maintenance of F-16 fighter jets in Türkiye and the sale of systems including military and training aircraft. The Minister of Justice of Turkiye, Yilmaz Tunc, stated that the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office had launched a judicial investigation into the attack. NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, expressed support for Türkiye following the terror attack. 

Russia: South Korea and the US warn against North Korea's troop deployment
On 23 October, Yonhap News Agency quoted South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) that around 3000 soldiers were expected to have been sent to Russia for military support. The agency added that 10000 more are believed to be stationed by December 2024. On 23 October, Politico reported that NATO and the US had confirmed the alleged deployment of North Korean troops in Russia. According to the US Defence Secretary, Lloyd Austin, this is a serious issue which would impact Europe and the Indo-Pacific. He said that the US was investigating the rewards North Korea would receive for helping Russia. NATO spokesperson, Farah Dakhlallah, said: “Allies have confirmed evidence of a DPRK troop deployment to Russia. If these troops are destined to fight in Ukraine, it would mark a significant escalation in North Korea’s support for Russia.”

Russia: More than 100 Ukrainian drones destroyed
On 20 October, Russia Today reported on the destruction of more than 100 Ukrainian drones in the Russian region. A report from Reuters suggests that Ukraine had targeted an explosives plant along with a storage facility in the Lipetsk region. The plant located deep inside Russia was one of its kind, subject to several sanctions from the US and the EU. Meanwhile, the Russian Air defences intercepted 110 UAVs over the Kursk, Lipetsk, Oryol, Nizhny Novgorod, Belgorod, Bryansk and Moscow regions. According to the governor of Nizhny Novgorod region, Gleb Nikitin, the attack aimed to target an industrial zone. He added that it injured four firefighters.

Russia: Prisoner exchange with Ukraine
On 19 October, the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation confirmed the swap of 95 Ukrainian soldiers for an equal number of Russian soldiers in a deal with the Government of Ukraine. The ministry also informed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) helped broker the exchange deal. The human rights centre, Zmina, informed that Maksym Butkevych, a Ukrainian human rights activist and co-founder of an independent radio station, was among the prisoners released. The Ukrainian government did not confirm the hostage exchange deal. Several prisoner exchange deals between Russia and Ukraine have been agreed upon since the war, with the UAE, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia helping to broker. 

Ukraine: The Prosecutor General's office investigates the execution of Ukrainian soldiers in the Donetsk region
On 21 October, Ukrinform reported on the execution of captured Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces. Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) launched a pre-trial investigation into the execution of two Ukrainian soldiers near the Selydove, Donetsk region. According to preliminary data, Russian military servicemen captured the two on 18 October in the Pokrovsk district of the Donetsk region. They put them face down on the ground and shot them at close range with automatic rifles. According to PGO, the shooting of the prisoners violated the Geneva Conventions. The investigation was headed by the Main Directorate of the Security Service of Ukraine in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Russia: Second maritime exercise with Myanmar
On 21 October, The Moscow Times reported on the "Second Myanmar-Russia joint maritime security exercise" (MARUMEX) conducted between 20 and 24 October. The three-day joint drill aimed to defend against air, sea and land threats alongside maritime security measures. The previous drill between the countries was held in November 2023. Four corvettes and a logistic vessel from Russia had arrived at Thilawa port in the Yangon region of Myanmar. Previously, the junta had informed that it would hold a live-fire maritime security exercise in the North Andaman Sea. Regarding this, it had restricted fishing boats and aircraft from travelling around the region.

Ukraine: European Council meeting concludes in support of delivery of air defences
On 17 October, the European Council reported on the conclusions from a meeting of the EU leaders. The EU leaders reiterated their commitment to a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine in line with the UN Charter and the support of the Ukrainian government. Additionally, they requested the Council to accelerate the delivery of air defence systems, missiles and ammunition systems to Ukraine and increase support for the Ukrainian defence industry. The leaders welcomed the sanctioning of a loan and a loan cooperation mechanism. The need for fair sharing and solidarity with G7 partners was also stressed. EU leaders condemned Russian attacks on the energy and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and called for further action to integrate the energy systems of Ukraine and the EU. They decided to continue sanctions on Russia and ensure effective enforcement. The EU stated its commitment towards imposing new sanctions and import tariffs on Russian and Belarussian products. They stressed the need to ensure accountability for human rights violations committed by Russia. 

Cuba: Hurricane Oscar claims six lives
On 23 October, Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel said that hurricane Oscar caused landfall in the city of Baracoa on 22 October, killing six people. The hurricane destroyed 1,000 homes. Guantánamo province is the worst hit. The hurricane also caused huge power cuts, leaving over ten million Cubans without electricity since 22 October. 

Haiti: Worsening gang violence
On 22 October, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) informed that there were more alliances between gangs in Haiti being formed, ramping up the violence. Currently, around 3,000 troops are fighting the armed gangs in the country. Residents are pleading with the international community for more security resilience. Since 17 October, more than 4,200 people have been displaced due to violence. Haiti is dealing with famine-like conditions due to heightened gang violence. 

The US: Six more Chinese companies in the export blacklist for supporting Iran
On 22 October, SCMP reported that the US added six Chinese companies to an export blacklist for supporting the development of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) by Iran and the modernization of the Chinese military. The US Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration, Thea D Rozman Kendler, stated that the US would cut off firms that acted against US national security. The Entity List entitlement restricts the companies from receiving US technology and goods without a special license. One of the Chinese firms added to the list was Beijing Moreget Creative Technology.  It acquired US-origin items related to aviation simulation technology in support of China’s military modernization. Other firms were Small Leopard Electronics and Shenzhen Dragonfly Supply Chain. Additionally, three other Chinese firms were added for procuring or attempting to procure US-origin items for the WMD and drone-development programs of Iran.


About the authors
Akriti Sharma and Rohini Reenum are PhD Scholars at NIAS. Padmashree Anandhan and Anu Maria Joseph are Research Associates at NIAS. Femy Francis, Neha Tresa George, Sayeka Ghosh, Samruddhi Pathak and Nuha Aamina are Research Assistants at NIAS. Advik S Mohan and Sachin Aravind are Research Interns at NIAS. Ayan Datta is a Postgraduate Student at the University of Hyderabad.


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Newsmakers of the week
August 2026 | CWA # 2222

Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani and Urja R Kudalkar

Peru's new President Netanyahu's Washington visit
US Senate bill against Russia | Ukraine and Patriot missiles | China's PLA 99th anniversary
July 2026 | CWA # 2217

Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, Urja R Kudalkar

The Berlin Pride attack
Zelensky's US Visit I Japan's Earthquake
July 2026 | CWA # 2216

Manikranth Chakravarthula

The Houthis:
Origins, Ethnic makeup, Political structure, Geographical footprint and External support
July 2026 | CWA # 2213

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week 22:
End of pause, Return of hostilities and Expanding conflict geography
July 2026 | CWA # 2211

Priyanka Makhijani

AI's Rogue Agent Breach:
Recurring Patterns, Gaps in the AI safety rules and the AI rivalry
July 2026 | CWA # 2210

Adwaith Sankar

ASEAN Regional Forum:
Six Takeaways on Issues, Limitations and Opportunities
July 2026 | CWA # 2206

Akshath Kaimal

The resurgence of Somali piracy:
Sophisticated tactics, Regional instability and an Ineffective international response
July 2026 | CWA # 2203

Brighty Ann Sarah

US-Iran War, Week 21:
Resumption of attacks and the Strait of Hormuz impasse
July 2026 | CWA # 2199

Preetha Renganarayanan

The SDG Annual Report 2026:
Six takeaways on a decade of SDG monitoring, global progress, and key challenges
July 2026 | CWA # 2197

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Iran War, Week 20:
Renewed Strikes, Collapsed MoU and the Blockade of the Strait
July 2026 | CWA # 2196

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal (Apr-Jun 2026):
New Government, Political Stability and Economic Recovery
June 2026 | CWA # 2193

Aparna A Nair

75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, CPEC expansion and Middle East mediation
July 2026 | CWA # 2186

Lekshmi MK

NATO Summit 2026:
Four takeaways on Alliance unity, Defence commitments, and Support for Ukraine
July 2026 | CWA # 2182

Anu Maria Joseph

Africa This Week
JNIM-FLA coordinated attacks in Mali and the RSF siege in Sudan
July 2026 | CWA # 2181

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine:
Deep strikes, NATO diplomacy and the Expanding air warfare
July 2026 | CWA # 2180

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

Iran after Ali Khamenei
Institutional resilience, Anti-American sentiment and an Unresolved conflict
July 2026 | CWA # 2172

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran negotiations:
Tenuous Ceasefire, Renewed Threats and the Contest over the Strait of Hormuz 
June 2026 | CWA # 2169

Anwesha Ghosh

Afghanistan (Apr-Jun 2026):
Growing External Engagement, Enduring Internal Constraints
June 2026 | CWA # 2168

Adarsh Vijay

High-Level Visits, Sideline Diplomacy and Upgrading Ties
June 2026 | CWA # 2166

Ramya B

Russia (April-June 2026)
Unsuccessful Offensive, Drone Attacks and Economic Challenges
June 2026 | CWA # 2165

Himani Pant

Europe (April-June 2026)
End of the Orban Era, Political Fragmentation, Tightening of Migration Rules and Continuing Economic Slowdown
June 2026 | CWA # 2160

Radhika M Agarwal

The War in Ukraine:
Ukraine's Crimea Campaign, The Belarus Standoff, and Russia's Aerial Bombardment
June 2026 | CWA # 2159

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Iran MoU
Renewed strikes, Persistent disagreements, and a Fragile Agreement
June 2026 | CWA # 2157

Global Politics Team

The G7 Summit 2026
President Xi Jinping’s North Korea visit I Myanmar President’s China visit
June 2026 | CWA # 2154

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The G7 Summit 2026
Four Takeaways on Economic security, Critical minerals, and Consensus on Ukraine and Iran
June 2026 | CWA # 2153

Global Politics Team

The US-Iran MoU
The War in Ukraine I Anti-immigrant violence in South Africa I Ultra Orthodox Jews' protests in Israel
June 2026 | CWA # 2150

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The War in Ukraine:
Massive drone attacks, Europe's support for Ukraine, and a Distant ceasefire
June 2026 | CWA # 2149

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran MoU:
Asymmetric Gains and Implementation Challenges
June 2026 | CWA # 2145

Glynnis Winona B

Myanmar and Press Freedom:
Four Takeaways on Legal repression, Institutional collapse, Violence, and Digital control 
June 2026 | CWA # 2144

Nithin V

Bangladesh and Press Freedom:
Four Takeaways on Digital security laws, Political polarisation, Journalist safety, and Media vulnerability 
June 2026 | CWA # 2143

Aishal Hab Yousuf 

Sri Lanka and Press Freedom:
Five Takeaways on Political influence, Legal mechanisms to control, Ethnic sensitivities and History of State intimidation
June 2026 | CWA # 2142

Glynnis Winona B

Bhutan and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways on Regulatory control, Economic fragility, and Social constraints
June 2026 | CWA # 2141

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Maldives and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways on the influence of democracy, legislation, and state funding
June 2026 | CWA # 2140

Nithin V

Pakistan and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways Military influence, cyber laws, political instability, and youth-driven digital journalism
June 2026 | CWA # 2139

Siddhi Halyur

Afghanistan and Press Freedom:
Four takeaways on political control, religious restrictions and economic vulnerabilities 
June 2026 | CWA # 2138

Siddhi Halyur

Nepal and Press Freedom:
Three takeaways on Political constraints, Missing legal protection and Funding issues
June 2026 | CWA # 2136

Acsah H

The Blue Origin Rocket Explosion:
Does this leave Jeff Bezos grounded, Elon Musk unchallenged, and NASA’s lunar timeline in jeopardy?
June 2026 | CWA # 2131

Rohini Reenum

Israel-Lebanon Tensions:
New Deal amidst Israeli incursion and Hezbollah’s retaliation
June 2026 | CWA # 2130

Akshath Kaimal

The UK-Rwanda Asylum Deal: 
Why did the Permanent Court of Arbitration reject Rwanda’s claims? What was Rwanda’s complaint? Why did the UK cancel the deal?
June 2026 | CWA # 2129

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa This Week:
The Ebola fear in DR Congo and the Elections in Ethiopia amidst conflicts
May 2026 | CWA # 2126

Aparna A Nair

The Shenzhou-23 Mission:
China's Space Missions, Technology, and Infrastructure
May 2026 | CWA # 2124

Glynnis Winona B

The Crisis in Cuba:
The US Sanctions, Energy Crisis, and Economic Instability
May 2026 | CWA # 2123

Akshath Kaimal

The Ebola and the DR Congo:
Multiple Outbreaks, Fragile Healthcare System, and Ineffective Global Responses
May 2026 | CWA # 2122

Radhika M Agarwal

The War in Ukraine:
Ballistic missiles, Nuclear drills with Belarus, and the Czech ammunition initiative
May 2026 | CWA # 2120

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflicts in the Middle East
The US-Iran War Week Thirteen: Escalating Hostilities, Tenuous Ceasefire and Tense Negotiations
May 2026 | CWA # 2119

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa
The Ebola spread in DR Congo, The Faye-Sonko split in Senegal, and the Deepening US military involvement in Nigeria
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 # 2090

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Ten:
Fraying Ceasefire, Renewed Negotiations and the Risk of a Stalemate
May 2026 | CWA # 2089

Global Politics Team

King Charles's US Visit
May 2026 | CWA # 2088

Nithin V

Emphasis on strong bilateral relations, democratic values and security cooperation
May 2026 | CWA # 2087

Siddhi Halyur

Exploring Strategic Sectors of Cooperation
May 2026 | CWA # 2086

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Implications for the Middle East and the Energy Market
May 2026 | CWA # 2085

Glynnis Winona B

Growing US-Europe differences and Challenges for Berlin
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 # 2080

Global Politics Team

Four Takeaways of the WFP's report on the fallouts of the Middle East crisis
April 2026 | CWA # 2079

Aishal Hab Yousuf

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 # 2070

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War I Conflicts in Africa I The War in Ukraine I China-Japan Tensions I Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes
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 # 2065

Lakshmi Venugopal Menon

The US-Iran War, Israel-Hamas Conflict and their interconnected fallouts
April 2026 | CWA # 2064

Anwesha Ghosh

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

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 Regime's 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 # 2054

Amrita Jash

Regional assertion, Pragmatic recalibration with the West and Avoiding military entanglement in the Middle East
April 2026 | CWA # 2053

Anand V

The "Two Sessions," Recalibrated growth targets, Technology prioritization, and Military purges
April 2026 | CWA # 2052

Shreya Upadhyay

April 2026 | CWA # 2050

IPRI Team

March 2026 | CWA # 2042

Preetha Renganarayanan

Five Takeaways of the US Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) Report for 2026
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 # 2023

Femy Francis

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 # 2017

Global Politics Team

March 2026 | CWA # 2011

Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha

Resetting Economic, Strategic and Cultural Ties
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

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

Yesasvi Koganti

From bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership
March 2026 | CWA # 2002

Femy Francis

Reducing trade deficit and recalibrating economic cooperation with Beijing
March 2026 | CWA # 2001

Preetha Renganarayanan

Six major takeaways on the economy, border and internal security and Iran
February 2026 | CWA # 1998

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Sudan
Response to the genocide call and the threats of a regional spillover
March 2026 | CWA # 1991

Global Politics Team

February 2026 | CWA # 1986

Preetha Renganarayanan

Focus on Trade, Defense, Energy and Regional Connectivity
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?
November 2025 | CWA # 1967

R Preetha

Risks, Reforms and Trajectories
November 2025 | CWA # 1966

Lekshmi MK

Five Questions on Challenges, Capacity and Policies
February 2026 | CWA # 1962

Global Politics Team

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas
February 2026 | CWA # 1961

Lekshmi MK

What does it mean for domestic politics and regional stability?
February 2026 | CWA # 1955

Global Politics Team

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas
January 2026 | CWA # 1947

Brighty Ann Sarah

January 2026 | CWA # 1946

Preetha Renganarayanan

The Davos Summit 2026
Five Major Takeaways from The World Economic Forum
January 2026 | CWA # 1945

Global Politics Team

January 2026 | CWA # 1943

Anu Maria Joseph

January 2026 | CWA # 1942

Lekshmi MK

January 2026 | CWA # 1941

Brighty Ann Sarah

January 2026 | CWA # 1940

IPRI Team

January 2026 | CWA # 1939

Lekshmi MK

January 2026 | CWA # 1937

Anu Maria Joseph

December 2025 | CWA # 1931

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1930

Aparna A Nair

December 2025 | CWA # 1924

Padmashree Anandhan

NATO Summit 2025
December 2025 | CWA # 1914

Preetha Renganarayanan

December 2025 | CWA # 1913

Rohini Reenum

December 2025 | CWA # 1912

Lekshmi MK

December 2025 | CWA # 1911

Swati Sood

December 2025 | CWA # 1905

Femy Francis

December 2025 | CWA # 1902

Brighty Ann Sarah

December 2025 | CWA # 1893

Lekshmi MK

December 2025 | CWA # 1889

Femy Francis

December 2025 | CWA # 1881

Sunidhi Sampige

December 2025 | CWA # 1864

Femy Francis

Ten Takeaways of a SCMP Interview with a former PLA Colonel
December 2025 | CWA # 1861

Femy Francis

China Reader
November 2025 | CWA # 1859

Brighty Ann Sarah

November 2025 | CWA # 1858

Padmashree Anandhan

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 # 1712

R Preetha

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 # 1703

M Kejia 

Sagarmatha Sambaad in Nepal
Kathmandu’s Global Agenda for the Himalayas
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 # 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?
October 2024 | CWA # 1480

IPRI Team

July 2024 | CWA # 1413

Ramya B

May 2024 | CWA # 1336

Femy Francis

April 2024 | CWA # 1275

Ramya B

March 2024 | CWA # 1251

NIAS Africa Team

Africa This Week
March 2024 | CWA # 1246

Sivasubramanian K

February 2024 | CWA # 1226

NIAS Africa Team

Africa This Week
November 2023 | CWA # 1148

GP Team

October 2023 | CWA # 1091

Annem Naga Bindhu Madhuri

Issues for Europe
October 2023 | CWA # 1087

PR Team

October 2023 | CWA # 1083

GP Team

August 2023 | CWA # 1049

IPRI Team

July 2023 | CWA # 1012

Bibhu Prasad Routray

Myanmar continues to burn
July 2023 | CWA # 1009

GP Team

December 2022 | CWA # 879

Padmashree Anandhan

The Ukraine War
December 2022 | CWA # 872

Sapna Elsa Abraham

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 2020 | CWA # 337

Anju Annie Mammen

February 2020 | CWA # 235

Lakshmi V Menon

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
July 2018 | CWA # 47

Rahul Arockiaraj

June 2018 | CWA # 26

Siddhatti Mehta