Conflict Weekly

Conflict Weekly
Conflict Weekly # 282-83
Gaza and Ukraine: Renewed Offensives

29 May 2025, Vol.6, No. 21 & 22


29 May 2025
Photo Source: Al Jazeera

Conflict Weekly #282&283, 29 May 2025, Vol.6, No. 21 & 22
An initiative by NIAS-IPRI

Ayan Datta and Padmashree Anandhan


Gaza: The Humanitarian Crisis and Israel’s Renewed Offensive 
Ayan Datta
 
In the news
On 28 May, thousands of Palestinians rushed into a US and Israeli-backed aid distribution centre in Rafah, resulting in a stampede that killed four people. Palestinian sources claimed that the fatalities were caused by warning shots fired by Israeli troops present at the scene. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which was providing the aid, distributed around 8000 food boxes but had to scale down its operations because of the overcrowding. 

Previously, on 27 May, the then GHF chief, Jake Wood, resigned from the organisation. Wood hinted that the agency’s composition of “loose constellation of...a wide range of stakeholders” hampered its ability to uphold “humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.” On the same day, Germany’s Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, criticised Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza, claiming that the latter’s actions were unjustifiable. 

On 22 May, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the IDF had established control over 50 per cent of Gaza’s landmass as part of its Operation Gideon’s Chariots, and was planning to “separate civilians from Hamas.”  Previously, Israeli airstrikes stalled the entry of 65 aid trucks into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom Crossing. 

Issues at large
First, Israel’s new offensive and stalled hostage negotiations. The ongoing IDF operations are part of Israel’s fresh Gaza offensive. Beginning on 16 May, the operation aims to destroy Hamas’ remaining military and political capabilities and secure Israeli control over the entire Gaza Strip. The operation unfolded alongside failed hostage negotiations led by Egypt and Qatar. Around the same time, Netanyahu publicly shifted his war priorities, stating that defeating Hamas and reoccupying the enclave was now his “supreme objective,” rather than rescuing the remaining hostages.

Second, the UN-Israel disagreements over aid suppliers. Ever since the IDF established control over Southern Gaza and the enclave boundary areas with Israel, Netanyahu has used the GHF to provide aid to the Palestinians, instead of UN agencies. The decision has faced staunch criticism from the UN agencies, especially the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), on several grounds. First, unlike the UN agencies, which work through established local channels, GFA is untrained and untested in Gaza. Second, the GHF is headed by former IDF officers, reservists, Israeli businessmen, and former CIA officers. These political links compromise its impartiality, making it complicit in Israel’s tactics of delays, diversion, and discrimination in aid provision. In contrast, the UN-affiliated staff function as an international civilian presence in Gaza, providing impartial coverage of Israel’s actions. Third, unlike UN agencies that operate across the Strip, GHF’s reach is limited to southern Gaza. This arrangement forces Palestinians to travel from northern Gaza to the Israel-occupied south, contravening the norm of providing aid at the recipient’s location and enabling Israel’s unstated policy of displacing Gazans. However, for Netanyahu, UN agencies harbour an anti-Israel bias and are prone to infiltration and diversion of aid by Hamas, which necessitates a US-Israeli presence.

Third, Western partners’ criticism of Israel. Merz’s remarks followed growing criticism against Israel’s latest operations from its major Western partners. Previously, the leaders of France, Canada, and the UK penned a letter to the Israeli government, urging it to halt its latest operations. The trio warned of “concrete actions,” including recognising the State of Palestine, if Netanyahu did not comply. Merz’s remarks appeared to depart from the established post-World War II German foreign policy consensus, which treated Israel’s security, as defined by Israel itself, as Germany’s national interest. With public opinion in Europe turning increasingly anti-Israel, Merz and other European leaders’ statements broke the norm against criticising Israel prevailing in western capitals since 7 October 2023.
 
In perspective
First, Israel’s re-occupation of Gaza is likely to deepen the Israeli-Palestinian divide. As political history shows, previous periods of Israeli occupation did not root out Palestinian nationalism. Second, Netanyahu does not view the debate over aid suppliers as a matter of expertise or training, but of undermining Hamas’ political capabilities by consolidating Israeli presence in Gaza. While Israel’s occupation is problematic, there is a grain of truth in Netanyahu’s argument about Hamas infiltration. The problem is particularly severe in Gaza, since Hamas is deeply embedded in Palestinian society.  Third, recent Western statements against Israel do not reflect a change in their Israel policy. Most Euro-American criticisms have only called for a slowdown in the pace and intensity of IDF operations, rather than any fundamental shift in the re-occupation policy. Moreover, unless Western partners take any tangible measures against Israel, like sanctions or cessation of weapons supplies, their carte blanche to Netanyahu effectively continues. 


Ukraine: Continuing Russia’s Aerial Attacks, despite exchange of prisoners 
Padmashree Anandhan
 
In the news
On 27 May, Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 60 drones at Ukraine overnight attack. On 26 May, Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy accused Russia of preparing a new offensive following the largest drone attack, along with cruise missiles. The attack targeted civilian infrastructure across northern, central, eastern, and southern Ukraine, resulting in 13 deaths. 

During 23 and 25 May, Politico reported on the prisoner swap of 1000 each between Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said: “Among those who returned today are soldiers from our army, the State Border Service, and the National Guard of Ukraine.”

On 27 May, US President Donald Trump warned Putin, "playing with fire" and severe consequences. On 26 May, he criticised Putin following a wave of deadly drone and missile attacks on Ukraine and warned: “Putin’s ambition to take all of Ukraine would ultimately lead to Russia’s downfall.” While acknowledging his historically good relationship with Putin, Trump said the Russian leader had "gone absolutely CRAZY." 

On 26 May, the Kremlin warned that any Western move to lift range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine would be "dangerous." Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that such decisions, if confirmed, would undermine hopes for peace and escalate the conflict further. On 27 May, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, reported on the ongoing process for a draft memorandum outlining its conditions for a potential peace deal to end the war. 

On 29 May, the German government signed a EUR five billion agreement with Ukraine to deepen military cooperation. The deal focuses on the joint production and procurement of long-range missile systems made in Ukraine, with no restrictions on their range.

Issues at large
First, Ukraine’s inability to defend its airspace. Russia continues to launch missiles and drones. Ukraine’s struggles to intercept these attacks highlight its weakness in air defence capacity. Till now, Ukraine has received Patriot missile systems, IRIS-T, NASAMS and new Gravehawk systems from the western allies. However, it faces a shortage of modern air defence systems as the pledged support of the West has been insufficient or delayed. This gap has resulted in the loss of major infrastructure and urban centres, increasingly making Ukraine’s military and civilians vulnerable. 

Second, Trump’s big words with no concrete action. Trump positioned himself as a staunch mediator capable of ending the war. His repeated efforts for the ceasefire through signalling trade deals with Russia or warning against imposing sanctions have not materialised. The calls with Putin have been rather symbolic than actual measures to pressure Russia into a ceasefire. While no peace framework, timeline for talks or sanction measures have been decided, Ukraine continue to be at the brunt of aerial attacks, casualties and damage.

Third, Russia’s contradicting strategies. Putin proposed direct talks but to not show up in Istanbul. He appreciates the Trump administration as more understanding of Russia’s interests but no concrete agreements resulted from the calls or meetings. He insists on not returning the Donbas and Crimea regions and demands legal recognition of the annexed territories, but demands that Ukraine should never join NATO. On the ground, there have been a few proposals from Russia calling for a short-term ceasefire however, the drone strikes and capturing of villages in the eastern front do not seem to stop. 
 
In perspective
First, Russia’s ambiguity is a strategy to win all. Russia has managed to deter the US from sending full-scale military aid to Ukraine by keeping the talks always on edge. This has helped it to continue its strikes on the ground, only strengthening its negotiation position. Europe’s sanctions and the threat of unrestricted supply of a range of weapons have earned strong objections from Russia. Putin’s direct threat to Europe on using “military winnings” will add more concern to European security as Europe still grapples with balancing between defence investments and economic stress. Russia's current stance on the ground and in the negotiations has broken all the predictions of non sustaining a prolonged war. It has strategically managed to use its resources within such as Wagner troops, and external aid from Iran, Belarus, North Korea, and China to strengthen its position in the war.  Thereby successfully keeping all the supporting allies of Ukraine in tense. 

Second, the European push. With Trump leading the negotiations with Russia, European leaders have been keen on mounting pressure on Russia through sanctions. However, the sanctions have failed to slow down Russia. The latest measure to lift restrictions on the range of weapons supply combined with aid to develop Ukraine’s long-range missile production, showcases Europe’s push to not only pressure Russia but strengthen Ukraine’s defence for the long term.


Issues in Peace and Conflict This Week:
Regional Roundups

Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Farhaz Rashid Ahmed, Rizwana S, and Lekshmi Muthu

China, East, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific
China: Trilateral meeting with Pakistan and Afghanistan
On 21 May, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi hosted trilateral talks with his Pakistan and Afghanistan counterparts, Ishaq Dar and Amir Khan Muttaqi, in Beijing. China pledged to support both countries in defending sovereignty, security, and national dignity. The three sides agreed “in principle” to exchange ambassadors soon. Wang emphasized strengthening diplomatic ties and cooperation under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The ministers agreed to boost collaboration on law enforcement, counterterrorism, and safeguarding against foreign interference. These developments came after the escalation of military tensions between India and Pakistan and a recent school bus bombing in southwestern Pakistan. China, while not formally recognising the Taliban, has supported it economically since 2021. Wang reaffirmed China’s “ironclad” support for Pakistan and vowed to deepen economic, security, and diplomatic ties with Afghanistan, promoting peace, stability, and mutual development across the region.

China: Foreign Ministry criticises the US “Golden Dome” missile defence plan
On 21 May, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning expressed strong opposition to the US “Golden Dome” missile defence project. He described it as a serious threat to global stability. The program aims to create a worldwide, multi-layered missile shield by 2029, which China views as a violation of international agreements. Chinese military expert Song Zhongping warned that the project, which may cost over USD 831 billion according to the Congressional Budget Office, could provoke a new arms race in space. He stated that the initiative reflects a US desire for military dominance and described it as an advanced version of Ronald Reagan’s “Star Wars” program. China's Ministry of National Defence criticised the plan and urged the US to abandon Cold War thinking. A joint statement by China and Russia rejected the militarisation of outer space.

China: Beijing sending military supplies to Russia, claims Ukraine’s intelligence agency
On 26 May, Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Chief, Oleh Ivashchenko, reported that China is supplying Russia a range of goods used in defence manufacturing industries. He said: “There is information that China supplies tooling machines, special chemical products, gunpowder, and components specifically to defence manufacturing industries.” He added that Ukrainian intelligence had information on at least five cases of Russia-China cooperation in the aviation sector in 2024-2025, including the supply of equipment, spare parts, and documentation. Without providing details, he noted that there were six cases of “large shipments” of special chemicals. In April, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused Beijing of providing direct military assistance to Moscow, which Beijing retaliated against as “groundless.”

China: President Xi sets regulations to protect military-industrial facilities
On 26 May, China’s President Xi Jinping signed a set of new regulations to protect China’s important military-industrial facilities. The regulation, jointly published by China’s State Council and Central Military Commission (CMC), aims to secure important military-industrial facilities, ensure their effectiveness and standard operations to modernise the country's national defence. This will apply to buildings, sites, and other facilities used for the research, production, testing, and storage of important weaponry and equipment. It mandates security measures, including the establishment of protection zones without authorisation, and the prohibition of activities like photography, videography, or documentation. The violation of the rules may result in criminal penalties. This regulation comprises 51 articles in seven chapters and will take effect on 15 September 2025.

China: Imposes 74.9 per cent anti-dumping duties on polyoxymethylene products from the US, the EU, Japan, and Taiwan
On 18 May, China imposed anti-dumping duties on imports of POM copolymers from the US, the EU, Japan and Taiwan for the next five years. Polyoxymethylene is a high-performance engineering thermoplastic known for its strength, rigidity, and dimensional stability. China’s Ministry of Commerce stated: “The highest anti-dumping rates of 74.9 per cent were levied on imports from the United States, while European shipments will face 34.5 per cent duties.” Japanese imports incurred 35.5 per cent duties, except the Asahi Kasei Corp, which received a company-specific rate of 24.5 per cent. Similarly, Taiwan incurred general duties of 32.6 per cent, except Formosa Plastics, which received a four per cent tariff and Polyplastics Taiwan 3.8 per cent.

China: Establishes new military schools for PLA’s modernisation
On 16 May, SCMP reported that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and China's Ministry of Defence announced the establishment of new military academies for its newly reorganised service branches. This is intended to facilitate the PLA's reform towards a modern, high-technology warfare by 2027 and a world-class army by 2049. The ministry spokesperson, Jiang Bin, stated that these academies will assist in adapting to the restructuring requirements and enhancing the training of the military. The new units are the PLA Ground Force Service Academy in Hefei, the PLA Information Support Force (ISF) Engineering University in Wuhan, and the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force (JLSF) Engineering University in Chongqing. These will enrol high school graduates. Current academies are being affiliated to create new ones, while the PLA Ground Force would run several specialist academies.

North Korea: Kim Jong Un oversees the air force drills
On 17 May, the Korea Times reported on air force drills supervised by Kim Jong Un. He called them “a breakthrough in war preparation.” According to the report, in less than a month, Kim oversaw a missile test, visited the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang to reaffirm the alliance with Russia and supervised tank firing drills and special operations unit training. North Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stated: "The more the U.S. provokes the DPRK with unnecessary and inefficient malicious acts, the further it will escalate the irreconcilable hostility between the DPRK and the U.S.”

South Korea: Military claims North Korea likely received Russian support for air-to-air missiles
On 19 May, the Korea Times reported that the South Korean military raised the possibility of North Korea receiving technological assistance from Russia to develop a new air-to-air missile. The development came after North Korea’s state media, KCNA, reported that the country’s leader, Kim Jong Un, oversaw anti-air combat and air drills the previous week. The drills unveiled a suspected live-fire drill involving a new air-to-air missile launched from a Mi-29 fighter jet.  

South Asia
Pakistan: Dismisses India’s assertion of establishing a new normal
On 16 May, Pakistan dismissed India’s narrative of a new normal in Pakistan-India ties. Pakistan demanded that the regard for “sovereignty and territorial integrity” must remain unchanged in the relations between the two countries. The assertions came from the Foreign Office after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on 10 May. Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan appealed to international partners to ensure India does not resort to any form of “aggression.” Meanwhile, India’s Minister of Defence, Rajnath Singh, demanded the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reconsider the USD one billion financial assistance to Pakistan. Singh stated that Islamabad could use the aid to spread terrorism. Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, responded that New Delhi was attempting to “politicise” the IMF. 

Pakistan: Four levies killed in armed attack along CPEC route in Khuzdar
On 17 May, Dawn reported on an armed attack that killed four levy personnel near the Sanand levies check post in the Khuzdar district along the CPEC road. The officials stated that no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. 

Pakistan: Balochistan car bomb explosion kills four, injures over 20
On 19 May, The News International reported four deaths and over 20 injured in a car bomb explosion at a Jabbar commercial market in Gulistan town of Balochistan on 18 May. The target of the attack is claimed to be Faizullah Ghabizai, “a pro-government tribal elder.” A heavy firing between Frontier Corps (FC) personnel and unknown armed men followed the explosion. The banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has reportedly claimed responsibility for the FC fort attack. 

Pakistan: Beijing to host trilateral talks with Pakistan and Afghanistan on regional peace
On 19 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan are set to hold trilateral talks in Beijing on 20 May to discuss regional peace and security. The meeting follows recent India-Pakistan tensions and alleged Afghan support for India. Pakistan’s Foreign Office confirmed that Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, is travelling to China on 19 May at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart. 

The Middle East and Africa
Iran: Judiciary condemns the arrest of Iranian cleric in Saudi Arabia
On 27 May, Iran’s judiciary condemned the arrest of cleric Gholamreza Qassemian in Saudi Arabia as “unjustified and illegal.” Qassemain was arrested when he posted a video criticising Saudi Arabia’s recent social reform as a “moral corruption.” He commented: "People will now be able to go to Mecca and Medina for casinos, brothels, and vulgar concerts instead of going to Antalya.” The incident ignited over social media throughout Iran, with mixed reactions. 

Israel: IDF intercepts Houthi missiles at Ben Gurion airport
On 25 May, the Times of Israel reported that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) intercepted a Houthi missile in Yemen, targeting Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv. No injuries or damages have been reported. It was the third attack in four days.

The War in Gaza: Israeli airstrike kill 85; the EU and the UK review trade deals with Israel amidst aid block
On 18 May, Israel's Prime Minister's Office announced approval of a "basic amount" of food into Gaza, easing a full blockade that has been in place for more than two months. Israel has been facing intense international pressure to allow the flow of aid. It was announced hours after the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) began "extensive ground operations" in Gaza. Israel additionally denied Hamas's ability to take control of the distribution of humanitarian assistance. Gaza's Ministry of Health reported to AFP that 57 children died from hunger during the blockade. 

On 21 May, Israeli airstrikes killed 85 Palestinians in Gaza, reported by health authorities. The agreed delivery of aid has been troubled by Israel’s security procedures. Although Israel mentioned that 93 trucks entered Gaza on 20 May, the UN confirmed a few dozen to have entered. The UN has warned of a famine affecting Gaza's two million residents. 

On 20 May, the EU diplomat, Kaja Kallas, announced that the bloc will reconsider its trade agreement with Israel over its aid block in Gaza. Kallas stated: “The situation in Gaza is catastrophic. The aid that Israel has allowed in is of course, welcomed, but it's a drop in the ocean. Aid must flow immediately, without obstruction and at scale, because this is what is needed.” France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noel Barrot, said that 17 out of 27 member countries support this move. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded: "We completely reject the direction taken in the statement, which reflects a total misunderstanding of the complex reality Israel is facing.” It added: "Ignoring these realities and criticising Israel only hardens Hamas’s position and encourages Hamas to stick to its guns.”

On 20 May, the UK paused free trade talks with Israel amidst escalating military actions in Gaza. It summoned Israel’s Ambassador to the UK, Tzipi Hotovely, and announced new sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank region. UK’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, David Lammy, condemned the Israeli offensive as "monstrous" and a “dark new phase,” and criticised Israel’s Minister of Finance, Bezalel Smotrich’s, words about potentially cleansing Gaza and relocating its residents. Lammy additionally called for an end to the aid blockade of aid and warned of more action if the offensive continues. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the actions as necessary for self-defence, describing it as a "war of civilisation over barbarism" and dismissed the UK’s criticism. 

Syria: Security forces kill three militants in Aleppo
On 17 May, Syrian security forces killed three militants and arrested four during raids in Islamic State (IS) hideouts in Aleppo. One security guard was killed, and one militant blew himself up during the raid.

Yemen: Houthis declare blockade on Israel's Haifa Port 
On 19 May, Yemen's Houthi rebels declared a "maritime blockade" on Israel's Haifa port in response to Israel's continued offensives in Gaza. Houthis spokesperson, Yahya Saree, warned: “All companies with ships present in or heading to this port are hereby notified that, as of the time of this announcement, the aforementioned port has been included in the list of targets.” 

Syria: The EU agrees to lift sanctions
On 20 May, the EU diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said that the foreign ministers in the bloc have agreed to lift economic sanctions on Syria. He stated: “We want to help the Syrian people rebuild a new, inclusive and peaceful Syria.” However, the bloc will maintain sanctions related to the Assad regime “as well as sanctions based on security grounds, including arms and technology that might be used for internal repression,” stated the Council. Besides, it will “introduce additional targeted restrictive measures against human rights violators and those fuelling instability in Syria.” Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded: “The Syrian government stands ready to enhance collaborative ties with European businesses and investors, fostering an environment conducive to economic revitalisation and sustainable development.”

Sudan: RSF turns the Zamzam camp into a military base
On 26 May, Africanews reported that Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) transformed the Zamzam displacement camp in North Darfur into a full-fledged military barrack. This camp hosts 300,000 displaced people and faces severe food shortages. RSF fighters replaced tents with fortified positions, installed checkpoints, and cut off access to aid workers. International watchdogs and rights groups condemned the move.

Mauritius: The UN welcomes the UK-Mauritius deal on the Chagos Islands
On 24 May, the UN welcomed the deal between the UK and Mauritius concerning the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia. The UK agreed to hand sovereignty over the Islands to Mauritius, while leasing the Diego Garcia base for 99 years with an annual payment of GBP 101 million (USD 136 million). This agreement aims to resolve a long-standing dispute, despite opposition from residents of the islands, who were forcibly evicted in the 1960s and 1970s for the US-UK military base. 

Namibia: Commemorates first Genocide Remembrance Day
On 28 May, Namibia observed the first official Genocide Remembrance Day. The day was dedicated to commemorating the victims of German-run concentration camps between 1904 and 1908. Tens of thousands of people from the Herero and Nama communities were executed during this period. In 2022, Germany acknowledged the genocide and pledged EUR 1.1 billion worth of development aid over 30 years.

Sudan: The UAE blamed for drone attacks on Port Sudan  
On 20 May, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of attacking Port Sudan on 4 May. It is the first time the SAF has blamed the UAE for direct military intervention in its ongoing war with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The SAF claimed that the attack involved drones and warplanes launched from an Emirati base, in retaliation for the SAF’s attack on a UAE-linked warplane in the RSF-controlled Nyala region. The UAE denied the accusations, calling them baseless. 

Africa: Global hunger reached a record high in 2024 amidst conflict and extreme weather, a UN-backed report
On 16 May, a UN-backed report, the 2025 Global Report on Food Crises (GFRC), indicated that global hunger hit a new high in 2024, affecting 295 million people across 53 countries and territories. 22.6 per cent of the world's worst-hit regions experienced crisis-level hunger or even worse. According to the report, the main drivers are conflict, extreme weather events and economic shocks. Conflict affected 140 million people across 20 countries, leading cause of hunger. This includes Gaza, South Sudan, Haiti and Mali. Economic shocks like inflation and currency devaluation affected 59.4 million people and caused food crises in 15 countries. Extreme weather like El Niño-induced droughts and floods affected 96 million people, especially in Southern Africa, Southern Asia, and the Horn of Africa. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the findings a failure of humanity and stressed the urgency of global action. 

Somalia: 13 people killed in a suicide bomb attack
On 13 May, Al Jazeera reported that at least 13 people were killed in a suicide bombing at the Damanyo base in Mogadishu, Somalia. The attack targeted young recruits at the army recruitment centre. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. 

Equatorial Guinea: ICJ rules against Gabon on the disputed three oil-rich islands
On 19 May, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favour of Equatorial Guinea in a dispute over three islands located in the oil-rich waters. The islands are Conga, Mbanié and Cocoteros. The dispute has been going on since the 1970s. The ICJ concluded that Equatorial Guinea holds sovereignty over the islands under the 1900 treaty, dividing French and Spanish colonial assets. The court dismissed Gabon’s sovereignty claims over those islands under the 1974 Bata Convention, which switched the islands’ sovereignty in its favour. 

Ethiopia: TPLF condemns the “ban” threatening the Tigray peace deal
On 16 May, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) condemned the ban on its activities as a “serious threat” to the peace deal signed in 2022, which ended the two-year conflict in Tigray. The party was deregistered by the National Election Board of Ethiopia for not holding a general assembly. The TPLF urged the AU to mediate with the federal government. The Tigray interim government is unable to hold general elections due to internal divisions. 

Nigeria: Chinese company invests in defence sector
On 16 May, SCMP reported that Nigeria struck a deal with a leading Chinese defence company, Norinco, on local production of military-grade ammunition, upgrading military hardware, servicing battle tanks and training defence personnel. Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, said: “This collaboration is a cornerstone of our ambition to achieve self-reliance in defence production.” In March, a high-level Norinco delegation visited Nigeria to discuss local arms production through collaboration and technology transfers. Nigeria used to depend mostly on Western countries for military equipment. Currently, with help from China, it's trying to build domestic weapons and gear to counter security threats. 

Europe and the Americas
Spain: Thousands protest against privatising healthcare in Madrid
On 25 May, Euronews reported that 30,000 people rallied in Madrid against the regional government's healthcare policies, which they argue are leading to the privatisation and dismantling public health system. Organised under the slogan "Let’s Save Our Public Health," the demonstration highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with long waiting times, staff shortages, and the privatisation of health services. Protesters, led by the platform "Vecinas y vecinos de los barrios y pueblos de la Comunidad de Madrid," demanded more funding for primary care. Left-wing parties and trade unions lent their support to the rally, with some accusing the regional government of cronyism, particularly on the ties between Madrid's president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, and the Quirón Group, a private healthcare provider. Demonstrators called for a shift toward preventative care and greater accessibility to high-quality public health services.

Norway: Hosts secret command centre
On 22 May, the BBC reported that Norway is hosting a secret command centre, carved into a Norwegian mountain. According to the report, this centre serves as a strategic hub for coordinating military operations against Russia in the Arctic region. NATO allies, led by Norway, have been conducting military drills in Arctic waters. 

Norway: Mark Rutte’s visit to Norway’s High North 
On 22 May, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Northern Norway. Rutte met Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, and Minister of Defence Tore Sandvik. During the visit, Rutte observed a demonstration of NATO’s multidomain capabilities in the High North region. He emphasised the strategic significance of the High North and praised Norway’s leadership in the region. Rutte highlighted the importance of coordination among the seven NATO countries with territory in the High North. Rutte underscored the need for increased defence spending among allies to address threats from Russia, China’s military build-up, and terrorism. He advocated for investments above two per cent of the GDP. 

Finland: Military presence in Rovajärvi threatens the habitat of reindeer
On 26 May, Eurasantimes reported on the concerns of Finland’s reindeer herders over the growing military presence in the Arctic following Finland’s accession to NATO. The military activities in Europe’s largest artillery practice range in Rovajärvi have disrupted the natural environment, threatening the habitat of the reindeer. Finland has 4,305 reindeer farmers and around 184,000 reindeer, living in 57 reindeer husbandry districts. Some belong to the indigenous Sami population and some to the non-Sami population. Military drills and noise have been disturbing the traditional grazing routes and practices. 

The UK: Tensions with Iran over national security concerns
On 19 May, the UK and Iran summoned each other’s diplomats in London and Tehran after the former charged three Iranian nationals under the National Security Act 2023 in a counter-terrorism investigation. The men are accused of assisting the suspected Iranian intelligence service between August 2024 and February 2025. Iran called it “false claims” and demanded an explanation. The UK Foreign Office stated: "The UK Government is clear that protecting national security remains our top priority and Iran must be held accountable for its action.” In May, four Iranians were arrested in a separate case under the same allegations.

Russia: Deploys Tu-95MS bombers in Olenya airbase in the Arctic
On 19 May, the Bulgarianmilitary.com reported that Russia sent two additional Tu-95MS strategic bombers to the Olenya airbase in the Arctic. The airbase currently hosts five Tu-95MS bombers, five An-12 transport aircraft and 38 Tu-22M3 bombers. The Tu-95MS bomber has nuclear capability and can carry long-range cruise missiles. The aircraft has upgraded avionics and weapons systems, extending its operational lifespan and effectiveness. The airbase is situated 1,800 kilometres north of Ukraine and 150 kilometres from Finland.

The Netherlands: Thousands protest against Israel’s activities in Gaza
On 19 May, thousands marched in the Hague, calling themselves the Red-clad protesters, demanding government action over Israel’s activities in Gaza. The protests were organised by several human rights groups, including Amnesty International, Médecins Sans Frontières, Save the Children, Pax, Oxfam Novib, The Rights Forum and Plant een Olijfboom. According to Amnesty International’s Marjon Rozema, the protestors called for an end to the Dutch government’s support for Israel. He stated: “We are calling on the Dutch government: stop political, economic and military support to Israel as long as it blocks access to aid supplies and while it is guilty of genocide, war crimes and structural human rights violations in Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.”

The US: Federal judge pauses Oklahoma immigration law
On 20 May, a US federal judge temporarily blocked the usage of an Oklahoma immigration law, HB 4156, which criminalises non-citizens' illegal entry into the state. Oklahoma District Judge Bernard Jones ruled that the law likely violates the federal government’s authority over immigration and temporarily paused it for 14 days. A longer injunction will be considered in early June. The case, led by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of local organisation Padres Unidos de Tulsa and individual plaintiffs, celebrated this as a win for Oklahoma’s immigrant community. It called the decision a key step toward permanently blocking the law. Meanwhile, critics condemned the ruling as “outrageous,” arguing it disrupts the state’s efforts to fight drug trafficking and criminal activities. 

The US: Judge warns US deportations to South Sudan may breach court order
On 20 May, a US federal judge warned the administration regarding the violation of a court order against deporting migrants to South Sudan. This came after immigration attorneys reported that a flight carrying about a dozen individuals, some reportedly from Myanmar and Vietnam, had landed in South Sudan. Judge Brian Murphy had previously ordered that migrants cannot be deported to a third country without a "meaningful opportunity" to challenge the deportation. In an emergency appeal, attorneys from the National Immigration Litigation Alliance urged the court to intervene. The judge mandated that those deported remain in US custody and be "treated humanely" until the hearing scheduled for 21 May. 

The US: Supreme Court blocks Trump’s use of Alien Enemies Act for migrant deportations
On 16 May, Al Jazeera reported that the US Supreme Court granted an emergency petition, blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 for expedited deportations. The case relieved two Venezuelan migrants in Texas. It reaffirmed that migrants are entitled to due process before removal, emphasising a fair hearing. The ruling stated: “We have long held that ‘no person shall be’ removed from the United States ‘without opportunity, at some time, to be heard.” This marks another legal setback for Trump's immigration agenda. The administration accused the two Venezuelans involved in the case of affiliation with the Tren de Aragua gang and stated undocumented migration as an “invasion,” invoking the centuries-old wartime law, which has only been used three times in US history and solely during declared war situations.  


About the authors
Ayan Datta is a postgraduate student at the University of Hyderabad. Anu Maria Joseph, Padmashree Anandhan and Femy Francis are Project Associates at NIAS. Fleur Elizebeth Philip is a Research Assistant at NIAS.  Merin Treesa Alex, R Preetha and Brighty Ann Sarah are postgraduate students from Stella Maris College, Chennai. Rizwana Banu S and Lekshmi M K are postgraduate students at Madras Christian College, Chennai. Farhaz Rashid Ahmed is an undergraduate student at St Joseph's University, Bangalore. 


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August 2026 | CWA # 2224

Global Politics Team

Zelenskyy's US visit
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 # 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 # 2078

Mahesh Bhatta

Managing Consensus and Moving ahead towards a New Nepal
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 # 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