The recent American attack on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil pipeline is an act of imperial restructuring. The strike, which the United States has justified as aimed against Houthi’s valuable resources, upends Yemen’s economy, which depends on aid, and feeds a vicious cycle of warfare.
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Multifaceted challenges confront BRICS in the aftermath of Trump’s second term. The convergence of economic strain, geopolitical rivalry, and financial pushback during Trump’s second term has undoubtedly weakened internal cohesion. But, China and India’s economies remain engines of global growth; resource-rich Russia and the Middle Eastern entrants hold keys to energy security; and Brazil and others are indispensable to food supply and climate solutions. These interdependencies ensure that the idea of BRICS, as a coalition of non-Western powers, retains appeal. The article analyses the alliance’s internal dynamics, the external pressures exerted by US policies, and the potential pathways BRICS might pursue to maintain its relevance on the global stage. The central question remains: Can BRICS navigate these turbulent times and emerge stronger, or are we witnessing the gradual erosion of its influence?
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In recent years, while there has been a drop in the enrolment of Chinese students in US universities due to the deterioration of ties between both countries and some changes to the visa regime, the number of Indian students in the US has risen. However, the recommendation of a new bill introduced in the US Congress on March 25, 2025 – the Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act 2025 – to scrap the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program could result in a dip in Indian enrollment in US higher education institutions. It would be important to point out that US universities are also dependent upon international students, and with a dip in the enrolment of students from China, they have become more dependent upon Indian students.
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Queen Tomyris of Massagetae defied the notion that war and conquest were the domain of men. Her legend endures as a symbol of strength.
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This is the first in a 5-part weekly essay series – Veiled Valour: The Forgotten Women of Warfare. The story
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Far from being a simple sectarian battle, the Syrian crisis is a calculated violent reconfiguration of society that is being
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If Trump wants to make headway with Russia and China he needs to have a more realistic approach towards the
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Subianto’s Strategic India Visit is important not just in the bilateral context, but also in the broader Asian and global context.
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Trump Team Immigration Rift is not just even on the incoming Trump administration’s China policy, there could be a divide in administration.
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Implication of Fall of Assad regime could be a step towards democracy or towards a nation has fallen from bad to worse.
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Bangabandhu’s legacy seems to be under threat due to the campaign to undermine Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Bangladesh.
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US colleges and universities have asked international students to return to the US before the inauguration of Donald Trump. According to estimates, it is the 4,00,000 international students who are undocumented who may face serious problems. Students on F-1 and J-1 Visas are unlikely to face any problems. Significantly, during the election campaign, Trump had even mooted the idea of Green Cards to international students who graduate from US universities.
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The Palk Bay Conflict calls for sustainable solutions to India-Sri Lankan fishermen dispute at the earliest.
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Putin is preparing for talks with the incoming Trump administration for ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukraine is understandably concerned about Trump agreeing to terms skewed in favour of Russia. Many believe that Trump is likely to continue with his “maximum pressure” policy on Iran. At the same time, it is important to bear in mind that Saudi Arabia’s ties with Iran have improved in recent years as mentioned earlier, despite some differences, and Russia’s proximity with Iran has increased as well. Iran and Russia have also been working together to circumvent US sanctions.
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If one were to go by the US President-elect’s campaign speeches, he is not opposed to immigration per se but
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Appraisal of Development Political Economy shows nexus between the government, lawmakers and concerned agents.
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It is tough to make any predictions regarding Trump 2.0. While some commentators believe that his policies will be as disruptionist as in his previous stint, others are of the opinion that he may be transactional but less unpredictable. During the presidential campaign, Trump had said that he would impose tariffs on countries which are trading in non-dollar currencies. It remains to be seen if he goes ahead with such measures given that several countries with close links to the US, including India, have been favouring de-dollarisation. It also remains to be seen how Trump 2.0 would perceive the Chabahar project given the current turmoil in the Middle East.
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Southeast Asian nations must now navigate the Washington-Beijing dynamics and see US Indo-Pacific strategy for autonomy and regional stability
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Chief Minister of Pakistan Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, recently underscored the need for greater cooperation between both Punjabs to counter the challenge of smog. Earlier this year, while speaking to Sikh pilgrims from India at Kartarpur Sahib, she had underscored the importance of ‘Punjabiyat’. The Punjabs on both sides have played an important role in people-to-people, cultural as well as economic linkages between both countries. Since 2019, when trade links between India and Pakistan, via the Wagah-Attari land crossing, were discontinued, there have been significant job losses resulting in a major setback to the border districts of Punjab (India). Maryam Nawaz’s remarks have raised hopes of resumption of engagement – albeit incremental – between both countries via the Punjabs.
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Russian submarine UFA docks in Kochi and symbolises the strong ties between Delhi and Moscow and is also a testament to strategic autonomy.
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The November 5 US elections is likely to be a close one and could swing either way. The US foreign policy is likely to be driven by ground realities and will remain the same on fundamental issues. Going by his election campaign and his previous tenure as President, Donald Trump could be more isolationist – especially on economic issues. Unlike Donald Trump, Kamala Harris is unlikely to ruffle feathers with allies and partners over economic issues, though she could be more vocal on issues of human rights and freedoms even vis-à-vis friendly countries.
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Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was sworn in as the Eighth President of Indonesia on Sunday — October 21, 2024. He
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Strategy against corruption: Quest for Good Governance calls for robust political and administrative will and vigilante civil society.
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S. Jaishankar plans to visit Pakistan for SCO; India’s neighbourhood undergoing recalibration, renewed outreach amidst Indo-China geopolitics
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The humanitarian crises unfolding in West Asia and Eastern Europe, along with the inability of the international community to enforce peace in these regions can be captured in a larger phenomenon engulfing the world today – ‘Netanyahuism’. Netanyahu’s approach of ‘eye for an eye’ has become popular all throughout the world. The taboo against the use of instrumentality of military actions to achieve foreign policy objectives is declining. The international community must show moral courage and start calling out the militaristic approach of both Iran and Israel. Solutions need to be found on the diplomatic table, not on the battlefield.
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Understanding the importance of UAE in the Middle East – especially in the current geopolitical situation US strengthen ties.
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Pakistan Faces Pipeline Deadline Dilemma comes at a time when it faces several other challenges – in the economic and foreign policy sphere.
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The Arab world has been witnessing exacerbating conflicts and spillovers in the region. Home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, Bahrain is the only Arab state to be part of the U.S. Naval Armada, Operation Prosperity Guardian. Both Iran and Saudi have been careful to not directly hit at each other since the restoration of their diplomatic ties. With this picture in mind, Saudi also would not want to harm the Iranian-backed Houthis. Like the Saudis, the Emiratis want to secure the Red Sea but do not want to be viewed as supporting Israel instead of solidarity with Palestine. With the nightmares of the previous Arab-Israeli wars still very much etched in the soil, the states have been trying to not escalate the tensions while trying to grapple for a balanced approach whilst also being steadfast in their solitude with Palestine.
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Recent developments strengthen Malaysia and India ties and cooperation in digitalisation, semiconductors and Artificial Intelligence.
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Trump’s foreign policy challenges will include that countries which have gone in for “de-dollarisation” should be penalised.
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Politicians must continually strive to define the “balanced line of history.” Leadership strategies, with all their contradictions and similarities, must
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Iran’s pragmatic engagement strategy takes care of turbulence in Middle East, US, China interventions, while balancing New Delhi-Tehran ties.
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If the state’s government and administrative activities are committed and meticulously managed, the living standards and well-being of the people
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While analysts remain skeptical about the reduction of US-Iran tensions under a possible Trump presidency, the possibility of Trump altering
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There is a rise of populism worldwide while tactical compromises on certain policy issues may draw flak they become inevitable.
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Broadening Singapore’s Dream Vision: Singapore to reorient its policies to a generational shift domestically and a changing world.
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Diplomacy and Pragmatism in India-Pakistan Ties must be practiced in a cautious, low key and incremental manner for global peace.
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Punjab’s crucial diplomatic role is visible between India and Pakistan in reviving economic linkages between India and Pakistan.
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Nepal’s Annual Policy and Programs need to be prepared well with concensus in democracy and its implementation holds the key.
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The primary focus of the Manama summit is the enduring Palestinian cause, a perennial concern topping the agendas of all
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India has recently signed a 10-year landmark deal with Iran to take over the Chabahar Port Operations, risking US economic sanctions.
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The Gaza War: A Brief about it presents chronological occurrence of events thar are concerning the whole world.
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Malaysia’s pragmatic diplomatic stand is evident from its criticism of US policies vis-a-vis Beijing while relationship with Washington DC.
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Dhaka’s economic success and foreign policy are cultivating robust economic relations with major economies including Pakistan and India.
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Pakistan would want to have cordial relations with Iran and finalize the gas pipeline project soon because of its desperate
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New Zealand Immigration Reforms are strengthening the link between geopolitics and immigration as well as the higher education sphere.
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The India-Oman CEPA will give a significant boost to bilateral trade between both countries. It will help Oman achieve its objective of reducing its dependence upon oil. The Gulf nation, which is strategically located near the oil transit point of the Strait of Hormuz, is especially important for Indian businesses — since they can set up manufacturing facilities and leverage Oman’s location and other advantages for exports to other West Asian nations and Europe.
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Gulf-Africa Economic Dynamics is important to study as it will economically benefit and also provide alternatives beyond China and the US.
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While it is an uphill task, Indonesia under Subianto will need to stick to a balanced foreign policy, which is nimble and deft, given the ASEAN nation’s economic and strategic interests. The ability to successfully walk a tightrope between the US and China and on other complex issues will depend upon several factors.
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US-ASEAN ties in a possible Trump Presidency are to be speculated as there are serious implications of the likely developments.
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Saudi Arabia’s Global Diplomacy is evident from its domestic policies, economic and social reforms in respect to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
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From a hybrid democratic system, Pakistan has descended to an authoritarian system of governance much like the Central Asian republics
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The US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal led to closer ties between Iran, China, and Russia. China pledged $400 billion in investments, but remains cautious due to US sanctions. Iran must balance these alliances to avoid over-dependence and navigate the geopolitical landscape with flexibility and pragmatism.
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In March 2023, Riyadh entered the China-led Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a dialogue partner. Saudi Arabia had also signed a Beijing-mediated agreement with Iran to resume diplomatic ties. The Gulf nation has played an important part along with Russia in the OPEC+ cuts in oil production much to the displeasure of Washington DC. Yet, in recent days, Saudi Arabia has been pushing for getting a defence pact with the US ratified before the US election of 2024.
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Wars often have unintended consequences, and the Israel-Gaza war is no exception. The earlier Iranian strikes in the region and the very recent Jordanian strike killing American soldiers imply that greater conflict in the Middle East emanating from the Israel-Gaza war cannot be contained and can spill out eventually in unforeseen circumstances. The decades-old Palestinian-Israeli conflict will persist causing the entire Middle East region to be further embroiled in persistent conflict, turmoil, and instability to the detriment of world peace.
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Brief analysis of Israel Hamas war shows that the continued bloodshed & destruction is disastrous and bold actions are required to prevent it.
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Ivy Academia is under scanner for Anti-semitism and its time to be responsible and accountable to the voice of conscience and humanity’
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The timing of China accepting the credentials of the Afghan ambassador, appointed by the Taliban, also comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan have witnessed a significant deterioration.
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The dichotomy of realists’ pessimism and liberalists’ optimism frames political debates globally. With international relations often dominated by authoritarian tactics, democracy becomes a challenging but desirable method in garnering global consensus. Though imperfect, democracy can offer strategies for balancing emotion and reason in its practices. Autocratic and democratic nations approach these issues differently. International society strives for a universal experience, aiming for cooperation despite differing political ideologies. Thoughts are converging, ushering in an anthropocentric world focused on existential rationality and mitigating global catastrophe.
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A recent poll by The New York Times and Siena College found former President Donald Trump leading over President Joe Biden in five key swing states for a potential 2024 presidential election match-up. The poll suggests Biden is losing support among young and black voters, and despite improvements in economic indicators, voters appear pessimistic about the US economy. Trump’s potential win could have significant implications for the ongoing geopolitical conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and the Middle East.
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The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are now encircling Gaza treating Hamas as a target. This escalating conflict ignited anti-American sentiment in the Muslim world, with global opinion turning against Israel. A month of heavy bombardment killed over 10,000 people, including 4,104 children, leading to international calls for a ceasefire. WHO, U.N. agencies, and international charities express concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
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In response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the United Nations General Assembly has called for an immediate ceasefire. The warfare has resulted in significant casualties and prompts international concerns about an impending humanitarian catastrophe. Despite global pressure, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, remains resolute to continue ground operations. Simultaneously, diplomats are considering possible administration changes in Gaza post-conflict. The international community continues to advocate for a two-state solution, emphasizing the significance of justice, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence.
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Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, urges Israel to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and ensure Chinese interests in Israel. Amid tensions following Hamas’s multi-pronged attack, China criticizes the killing of civilians but avoids condemning Hamas. As the conflict escalates, upcoming meetings between Wang Yi and US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, could present opportunities for dialogue. Despite increasing aggression from Iran, China’s influence in the Middle East could potentially help mitigate the situation.
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Israel-Hamas conflict has been marred by Diplomatic Maneuvers by world powers including USA, Russia, China, Iran, EU in previous fortnight. The article analyses the updates on the conflict as on October 23, 2023
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The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine marked a significant turn, with a surprise attack on Israel marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Arab-Israeli war. The violence, which has been consistent since post-WWII, escalated as Hamas launched over five thousand rockets at Israel. Despite international efforts, including the Cairo Summit for Peace, a resolution seems elusive. Accusations of Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and retaliatory violence add tension, while powerful countries attempt to exert influence and propose solutions.
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Climate change’s severity in India is escalating, driven largely by the country’s dependence on coal-based power plants. Recognizing this, the government aims to satisfy 50% of energy needs through renewable sources by 2030 and has taken steps to limit pollution with clean coal technologies. However, the transition from coal presents challenges, including fluctuating costs of natural gas and the reliability of renewable energy. Implementing new technologies and shifting towards renewables requires strong local institutions, community involvement, and private sector participation.
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The shifting global power equation combined with increasing advocacy for regional peace through a sovereign Palestinian state necessitates that the US rethink its global strategy. Tensions in Gaza are escalating, potentially leading to a large-scale conflict as Israel plans a comprehensive offensive against Hamas. Amidst growing fears of war and a worsening humanitarian crisis, there’s a pressing need for negotiating peace and ensuring timely humanitarian aid in the region.
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The October 7 Hamas attack is the deadliest offensive that Israel has experienced in 50 years, pushing it to declare “war” on Hamas.
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The world is being reordered. There is a complex interplay of global forces like climate change and human forces like power play and populism
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Stellar performance of Afghanistan currency calls for global community needs to be pragmatic and nuanced to ensure that Afghans do not suffer.
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Indian-French interests in Transcaucasia are positioning themselves as one of the main guarantors of compliance with the UN principles.
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Nepal has to evince its roles, responsibilities and obligations as a nation in the world affairs that is quite closer to the world.
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Shoigu’s visit to the DPRK amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine offers an opportunity for fast resolution of Korean Peninsula nuclear issue.
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PM Modi’s visit to France has helped in strengthening and extending the Indo-French Defence Cooperation through strategic cooperation.
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The Issues of Desecration of the Holy Quran in Sweden and Denmark has appalled Muslims while most Westerners are not.
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In Aftermath of Wagner rebellion Russia should be treated with caution as its sudden defeat would pose even more problems and risks.
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Japan-Nepal Soft Power indicates Japan’s commitment and role in the development of not just Nepal, but also other developing countries.
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Pakistan, the IMF Deal, and Reforms at best need capacity at all levels of the government and must be free from best brains leaving country.
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Mr. Ajaypal Singh Banga – New President of the World Bank from May 2023 is part of ‘Great Immigrant list’ of Carnegie Corporation of New York.
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Saudi Arabia is looking to enhance its strategic and economic clout globally. Riyadh has been showing interest in China-dominated organizations SCO and BRICS. Saudi has already joined SCO as a dialogue partner and has applied for membership in BRICS. However, its relationship with US is still economically and strategically important. US has a strong military presence in Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. Further, Saudi Arabia’s economic and strategic interests on key issues could diverge from both Beijing and Moscow.
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There are many influential “groups of dissatisfied” against the policy of the Ukrainian President and his team among the officers of the Ukrainian army. However, it is already visible to the naked eye the contours of a formidable military opposition which the head of state may encounter in the near future.
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In recent years, several changes have taken place in the Indian and global landscape, which students seeking to pursue higher education overseas, as well as in India cannot ignore. Some overseas universities are likely to set up campuses in India. The West is seeking to attract more Indian students as a result of strained ties with China. In the imminent future, there will be many more joint programs between Indian institutions and overseas educational institutions. And most importantly, the focus will now be on technological skills and languages and not degrees. It is important for parents also to bring about a change in mindset.
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Changing paradigm of BRICS witnesses collaboration on several issues amongst BRICS, mere ‘Anti-US’/anti-western posturing is not sufficient.
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In recent weeks, tensions between Beijing and Washington seem to have escalated after the incident of an ‘alleged’ Chinese spy balloon being spotted in US airspace. The Biden Administration may not want ties with China to deteriorate further and it may also seek to find common ground on important global issues. It is likely however to continue with its tough economic stance vis-à-vis China in the run-up to the 2024 US presidential election. The important factors which will influence the trajectory of the Washington-Beijing relationship are the course of the Russia-Ukraine war and China’s stance on the same as well as China’s approach towards Taiwan.
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Iran China Russia triangle is likely to grow due to the down sliding of the US-China ties and Iran’s economy facing serious challenges.
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Sri Lanka and Pakistan are dealing with serious economic crises. Apart from serious domestic issues like shortage of essential commodities, and power cuts, both countries have meagre foreign exchange reserves. The excessive dependence on China is the main reason for the increasing debt trap. Both countries also had to seek International Monetary Fund (IMF) assistance despite domestic opposition against the conditionalities imposed by the IMF. It is important for South Asian countries to work towards more robust economic linkages within the region and to shed dependence upon external assistance.
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Limiting the number of students from India or changing rules pertaining to the graduate post-study work visa will make the United Kingdom a less attractive destination for higher education for Indian students. The UK needs to understand that Indian students contribute significantly to the UK economy, not just in the form of tuition fees, but also through their talent and skills.
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Grain-agreement-between-Russia-and-Ukraine is under threat of disruption because of the violation of the agreement’s conditions.
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Ties between India and Pakistan are complex. Dictated by geopolitical factors and domestic politics, it is tough for any third country to really bring about a dramatic change in the short run. In recent years, Gulf countries have been playing an important role in reducing tensions between India and Pakistan.
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There is no doubt that India’s Presidency of the G20 is an important opportunity for India to give a strong boost to its tourism sector. This will give a much-needed fillip to the country’s hospitality industry and the economy. Showcasing cities which do not get the attention they deserve and a greater focus on the North-Eastern region, by holding meetings there, is a welcome step.
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North-East Festival is a festival that celebrates the beauty, diversity, and integrity of North-East India. The USP of this festival is the way in which we seamlessly integrate elements of social cohesion, cultural heritage, and economic welfare, making them an immersive experience for all. This also seeks to give a fillip to ties between North Eastern India and the increasingly important ASEAN region. The festival is important for a number of reasons. First, it highlights aspects of the region’s culture and economy that residents in other parts of India are not familiar with. Second, it can give a boost to tourism in the region. Third, it can open up new horizons for entrepreneurs from North Eastern India, and the rest of the country.
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The visit of the Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, to China could pave the way for reducing tensions between both countries, though it would be unrealistic to expect substantial progress in the short run. Any thaw between both countries will require a significant course correction in Xi Jinping’s foreign policy, which so far has been fundamentally different from that of his predecessors.
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While the Malaysian economy has been adversely impacted as a result of political instability, the Indonesian economy has benefited immensely from political stability. Also, Malaysia has been lagging behind Indonesia in terms of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). But still Malaysia continues to be one of the most attractive investment destinations in ASEAN.
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Geopolitical issues have affected the people-to-people links and higher education adversely. While the UK, like other developed countries in the West, is keen to attract talented professionals as well as students who could contribute positively towards its economy, it is mooting the idea of restricting the inflow of international students who get admitted into ‘low-quality degrees’, and also bring in their dependents through the student visa route. On the other hand, Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy makes a clear reference to strengthening people-to-people contact with different parts of Asia and seeks to enhance Canada’s international student program with permanent residence and job opportunities for students from the Indo-Pacific.
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It is important that China and the West ensure that their relations do not slide further. It is important for both sides to refrain from a zero-sum approach and that they cooperate on important global issues. At the same time, countries wary of China’s increasingly aggressive behaviour, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, need to come up with a cohesive strategic and economic vision to counter the same.
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These days politicians are so convicted that their opinions are correct that they don’t hesitate to dissemble any facts that are contrary to their position. They always make loud statements. However, at times their words and actions do not jibe. It involves trouble for nations and more for whole regions. And that is particularly true for the Indo-Pacific region, where many countries have their own great ambitions and also have enough military power to achieve their objectives. It should be well understood that sooner or later this kind of double-standard policy will fail. The lessons of world history inevitably prove it. It is very important to stop in time and think about it. It seems that it is time to stop just making loud statements.
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The ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar once again highlights the importance of sports in foreign relations. Sports, over the years, have helped unite nation-states with opposing ideologies. Diplomacy through sports harnesses soft power in geopolitics. Major sporting events like the Dynamo Moscow Football Tour after WWII stands as a testament to two rival countries coming together to settle their indifferences through the means of sport. The ping-pong game between China and the US helped end two decades of animosity between Sino-US relations. In recent years, sports diplomacy has been used to promote legitimate means of peace and development infrastructure in countries while hosting major sporting events. A country with a strategy of sports diplomacy will benefit in economic development and will leave a positive impact.
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It is true that the US needs to strike a balance between domestic priorities and its global commitments, but it cannot have meaningful engagement with the rest of the world, including ASEAN, if it is insular on economic issues. In other words, the US needs to realize that both ‘America First’ and globalisation – with some checks – can co-exist.
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The most famous historical facts of mass sexual crimes are connected in the minds of ordinary people with the image of Nazis during World War 2, with the Japanese militarists who carried out the Nanjing Massacre or with the genocide of the population during the civil war in Rwanda. However, let’s put this theme in the context of the continuing war in Ukraine.
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ASEAN is likely to be the driver of economic growth in the imminent future. While a number of ASEAN member states have stated that they do not subscribe to the US vision of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific, they are also aware of China’s increasingly expansionist tendencies and its aggressive stance over the South China Sea Issue. While ASEAN has numerous opportunities, it needs to ensure that differences within the bloc do not impact its functioning.
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