Issue Briefs

Russia’s Odessa Drive: Geopolitical Imperatives and Competing Visions
Russia’s intensified strikes on Odessa highlight its bid to neutralise Ukraine’s maritime lifeline and assert dominance in the Black Sea. Rooted in historical claims and NATO security fears, Moscow’s campaign threatens Ukraine’s economy, global food security, and regional stability, while exposing the limits of international institutions.
Structural Constraints and Strategic Inertia: Rethinking Gulf Security After Israel’s Doha Attack
This Issue Brief analyses the structural limitations of the Gulf security framework in light of Israel’s unprecedented attack in Doha on 9 September, targeting Palestinian Hamas leadership. While the attack marked a dangerous escalation of Tel Aviv’s regional adventurism, it also exposed the enduring structural weaknesses of the Gulf’s security architecture which has been defined by entrenched dependency on the United States.
Beyond Symbolism: Can Pakistan Become West Asia’s Net Security Stabiliser?
This issue brief explores whether Pakistan can evolve from a traditional “security contractor” into West Asia’s net security stabiliser. The September 17, 2025, Saudi-Pakistan Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement marks a pivotal moment, formalising decades of military cooperation between the two countries. Historically, Pakistan has trained Gulf forces, guarded monarchies, and provided military personnel, often in transactional arrangements....


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Forthcoming BRICS Summit 2026 in Delhi : Can India Seize the Moment?
Mohammed Badrul Alam
India chairs the 2026 BRICS Summit amid geopolitical turmoil, balancing internal divides and global pressures. Its agenda prioritises resilience, innovation, and Global South solidarity for a more equitable world order.
Silencing Dissent, Fuelling Despair: The Arrest of Mahrang Baloch and the Dangerous Transformation of the Baloch Conflict
Syed Eesar Mehdi
The article examines how Mahrang Baloch’s imprisonment and the rise of female suicide bombers reflect a dangerous convergence of shrinking democratic space and evolving militancy, challenging Pakistan’s long-term strategy for restoring peace and order.
Fusion of Sushi and Samosa: Evaluating Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi’s Visit to India
Mohammed Badrul Alam
Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi’s visit to India underscores a robust strategic partnership. Driven by China's regional dominance, both democracies are aligning on defence, technology, and economic diversification to secure a balanced Indo-Pacific.