Issue Briefs

Fall of Bashar Al-Assad: What it Means for the Region and India
The fall of Bashar al-Assad's government marks a significant turning point in the Western Asia region. Assad was overthrown by a quick onslaught by opposition troops commanded by Ahmad al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, following more about 13 years of civil war and international sanctions.
Emergence of Terrorism in Central Asia: Roots, Drivers, and Implications
Central Asia, which includes Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, has always been regarded as a stable and safe region, but the recent incidents of terrorism, linked to this region and perpetuated by ISIS-Khorasan (IS-KP), have caused significant concern both regionally and globally.
How will Trump Impact Europe in his New Term?
The election of Donald Trump as the President of the United States of America (US) for the second time poses manifold challenges to the continent of Europe, which is already going through a major war, sluggish economic recovery after the pandemic and a myriad of issues from migration, to rise of the Far-Right.


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India–US Trade Deal: More Than Commerce, It is a Strategic Signal
Imran Khurshid
India’s interim trade deal with the United States signals for India, more than commerce, a strategic foresight, diplomatic patience, and growing confidence on the global stage.
Shaksgam Valley: Pakistan's Complicity in China's Territorial Expansionism
Senge Sering
China’s control of Shaksgam Valley stems from Pakistan’s 1963 transfer of the territory under a temporary border agreement. India rejects the deal, calling it illegal, while China leverages Shaksgam for strategic infrastructure and military advantage. The dispute remains unresolved, complicating future of the areas illegally occupied by Pakistan and China and affects regional stability.
The Death of Dialogue: Criminalising Dissent in Pakistan
Nazir Ahmad Mir
The sentencing of activists Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha to 17 years in prison signals a drastic shrinking of Pakistan’s democratic space. By equating human rights advocacy with anti-state terrorism, the state risks alienating sensible voices.
Xi Jinping’s High-Stakes Military Purge: Raises Questions Over China’s Taiwan Readiness
Imran Khurshid
China’s dramatic purge of its top generals is not merely an anti-corruption drive — it is a ruthless test of loyalty. The upheaval exposes deep insecurity at the heart of Xi Jinping’s control over the Party-army.