Issue Briefs

The Paradox of the Periphery: Pakistan’s Strategic Entanglement in the Middle East
Pakistan’s Middle East strategy secures short-term gains—Saudi deposits, defence pacts, and mediation roles—yet its fragile economy and political dysfunction trap it in a “perpetual periphery.” Central enough to matter but too weak to consolidate influence, Islamabad’s diplomacy remains transactional, survivalist, and strategically unsustainable.
Impact of ‘Operation Sindoor’ on Pakistan’s Fragile Economic Recovery
Pakistan’s economic crisis has reached a breaking point, with inflation exceeding 40% and foreign exchange reserves falling to critical levels.
The Changing Contours of Pakistan-Afghanistan Relations
Once strategic allies, Pakistan and Afghanistan are now engaged in direct military conflict. Despite Chinese mediation, cross-border airstrikes and TTP militancy have pushed bilateral relations to an unprecedented historic low.



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The Geopolitics of Proximity: India-Bangladesh relations in an era of strategic rebalancing
Mohammad Usman Bhatti
This study explores India‑Bangladesh relations after the 2024 transition, highlighting trade imbalances, energy dependence, and disinformation, while stressing multi‑alignment and the need for reciprocal partnership in a multipolar South Asia.
From SAGAR to MAHASAGAR: India’s Quest for Maritime Leadership and Security
Mohammed Badrul Alam
India’s maritime strategy evolves through SAGAR and MAHASAGAR, uniting naval power, Coast Guard roles, blue economy goals, and regional partnerships to secure trade routes and counter rising Indian Ocean challenges.
Black September and Zia-ul-Haq’s forgotten war: The Butcher who became a Champion
Mohammed Shoaib Raza
In 1970 Brigadier Zia-ul-Haq helped Jordan crush Palestinian fighters in Black September, earning royal gratitude that later aided his rise—before reinventing himself as a champion of the Palestinian cause.