Security
US withdrawal from Syria: What next?
Changes in the US’ foreign policy in the Middle East took another turn when President Donald Trump announced that US troops were to withdraw from Syria.
Houthi threat to Saudi Arabia’s oil industry
The increasing missile, drone, and naval capabilities of the Houthis make the Saudi oil industry vulnerable to attack.
Chinese naval base in Cambodia
The undisclosed military pact between China and Cambodia constitutes another significant example of China pursuing dual-use infrastructure projects in the Asia Pacific – while simultaneously denying the existence of such projects.
Saudi Attacks: Dawn of a New Era in Warfare
The September 14 attack in eastern Saudi Arabia is unprecedented. A drone and missile strike claimed by Houthi rebels of Yemen damaged Saudi Arabia’s oil processing facilities. U.S. and Saudi officials claimed the incursion originated outside of Yemen implicating Iran as the main culprit.
Russia grows impatient with Turkey in Syria
On August 2, Syria’s warring factions announced a ceasefire to fighting in the last remaining stronghold of Idlib. It did not last long as three days later fighting resumed between the government and its opposition.
Can Iran force Europe to defy US sanctions?
Iran has announced that it will enrich uranium beyond the limits mandated by the JCPOA (Iran deal). The announcement is an attempt to force the EU to deepen its efforts to alleviate the impact of biting US sanctions.
An Indian Space Odyssey: Security and Economy
Several ISRO initiatives concerning the Indian space programme have been conducted. These reflect India’s growing wealth and technological capability.
Australia-Japan alliance: A blueprint for something bigger?
Is the strengthening of bonds between Japan and Australia merely an attempt to balance China, or is it a sign of a more promising future?
The Sahel Uncertainty: Climate change and Insurgency
The Sahel is increasingly affected by underdevelopment, endemic poverty, criminality, and insurgency. Climate change has recently extrapolated these problems by making essential resources scarce.
Burkina Faso: Front-line against Jihadism in West Africa
Burkina Faso’s strategic geographical position makes it crucial in the fight against extremism in West Africa, but the country is failing to contain the threat. Despite coordinated efforts, national and regional forces have been unable to counter the expansion of jihadist groups towards the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin and Togo.
