Hindutva At Its Peak

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May 31, 2024

India is known as the largest liberal democracy in the world, but notable shifts occurred under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The rise to power of the BJP has happened to the mushrooming of the Hindutva ideology that stresses the cultural and religious supremacy of Hindus. This has fueled the concerns regarding the contraction of India’s secular segment and the sidelining of religious and ethnic minorities, particularly Muslims. Be that as it may, in reality, due to his vulnerabilities, Modi not only has become lethal towards the Muslims but his Hindu opponents also.

One can see the desperation for securing the third-time premiership by putting several politicians from the opposition under investigation or putting rest behind bars like Arvind Kejriwal.

This move is made on false corruption grounds to curtail competitors from contesting elections. Moreover, his concurrent addresses are haunting the Hindus that Muslims being infiltrators are exploiting the resources of Hindus and could shrink the existence of the latter in India.

Additionally, three major stunts were performed to assure the Hindu majority that he is the only saviour of Hindus: the Construction of the Ram temple on the land of the erstwhile Babri Masjid, Citizenship law, putting Muslims in despair state, abandoning the Special status of Jammu and Kashmir by rescinding of the article 370. Modi was supported by the lower Hindu class of India during the 2019 election. But this time, the appeal goes beyond just the lower Hindu class. His leadership style of connecting with students, entrepreneurs, and YouTubers has extended his vote bank to a broader section of the Indian population, including the middle-educated class.

The ongoing elections in India appear to be the promotion of Hindutva ideology by the BJP, alongside the utilization of anti-Pakistan rhetoric by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for political gains. Modi’s past electoral campaigns, particularly during the years 2014 and 2019 general elections, have often featured strong nationalist and anti-Pakistan emotions to rally support among the Indian electorate. His social media outlets are always on the run to disseminate loathe against Pakistan. Such acts are the reasons that create stalemate between two immediate rival neighbours, and meaningful dialogues have always been discouraged.

By tarnishing Pakistan and the Indian Muslim minority, Modi aims to gain greater support from Hindus and secure the PM ship for the third time.

Besides, Pakistan has always been stained for proliferating terrorism in India. But Pakistan has consistently denied the claims and stated that it is itself a victim of terrorism and has taken stern measures to eradicate extremism and militancy within its borders. By using inflammatory speeches, reality can’t be brushed under the carpet.

He was the one who massacred thousands of innocent Muslims in Gujrat during his CM ship in 2002. Rather, Indian intelligence (RAW) has provided support to separatist movements in Balochistan to sustain unrest in the province. Similarly, RAW has also utilized the Afghan territory to launch and support terrorist elements in Pakistan to weaken internal security and territorial integrity.

If Modi secures another term, things will get worse. Inestimable insecurities will be laid before the minorities, in particular Muslims. Along with this, the Indian foreign policy would be moulded with greater estrangement towards Pakistan. Nevertheless, the former should not underestimate the latter’s deterrence capabilities. By fueling hate against Pakistan, Modi can secure the Premiership, but security vulnerabilities will also be inflated among the two nuclear states and in the region.

Based on past events, neither country can afford another confrontation. Yet the six phases of the Indian Lok Sabha election 2024 are completed, and the results will be announced on June 4th 2024, after the completion of the 7th phase. Hopefully, besides Modi, whoever forms the government will revise India’s foreign policy and focus on building peaceful relations with neighbours, especially Pakistan. Since harmonious relations are profitable for Pakistan and in good favour of the region.

The Karachi Agreement: Gilgit Baltistan’s Unending Constitutional Crisis

By

Ijlal Haider

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May 31, 2024

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Gilgit Baltistan, formerly known as the northern areas, is a region directly administered by the federal government, also called Khita-e-Be Iaen (Region without a constitution) by the local people. Due to the geo-political and geo-strategic significance and unique topography, the region was a battleground for different empires such as the Chinese Tang Dynasty, the Tibetan Empires, the local Maqpon Dynasty, and the Rajas of Hunza till the 1840s. Subsequently, the Dogra Dynasty took control of the region from 1840 to 1947-48 in a Treaty famous as Treaty Amritsar 1846.

The primary focus here is to shed light on the Karachi Agreement, which reshaped Gilgit Baltistan’s destiny, plunging it into an unending constitutional crisis rather than delving into the historical explanation.

The agreement was signed secretly on 27^th-28^th April 1949 between Mushtaq Ahmad Gurmani, the then Pakistan’s minister without portfolio, Chaudary Ghulam Abbas, head of All Jammu & Kashmir Muslim Conference, and Sardar Muhammad Ibrahim Khan, the then president of Azad Kashmir. The four-page agreement is divided into three sections.

The first two sections outline the administrative and financial compromises between Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, but surprisingly, the third and most important part deals with the division of power; only in a single line, the matters of GB are transferred to Pakistan along with others, including defence, negotiation with UNCIP, control over AJ&K force, etc. Section III A(VIII) of the agreement is quoted as:

“All affairs of the Gilgit and Ladakh areas under the control of the Political Agent at Gilgit.”

Martin Sokelfeld, a German scholar, has used the word “transfer” for the agreement by arguing that the government of AJK has practically never experienced any responsibility for GB, but because the government of Pakistan by default recognizes the AJK government as legitimate for the whole of J&K, so it took the legal justification for controlling GB from AJK. Moreover, he also justified by referring to Article 1 of the Treaty of Amritsar 1846, that the greater part of Gilgit Baltistan is situated on the western and northern side of the Indus River.

However, the territory specified in the treaty given to Gulab Singh mainly included eastern chunks of today’s GB. In his MPhil dissertation, Sajid Ali argues that the infamous Karachi Agreement is the first and most unfortunate attempt by the Pakistani state to associate GB with the Kashmir Issue, for which the people of Baltistan fought the war and were liberated from Dogra troops on 1 November 1947.

The people of GB celebrate the 1^st of November as the Day of Independence ( Jang Azadi-e-Gilgit) every year and pay tribute to the heroes who have sacrificed their lives in this freedom struggle. The telegrams sent by Major Brown to Pakistani officials quoted in his book “The Gilgit Rebellion 1947” depict the patriotic sentiments raising the slogans “Pakistan Zindabad” curious to accede with Pakistan.

The Pakistani state has treated the region as a colony since its accession on 16^th November 1947. Major Brown further wrote in “ Gilgit Rebellion” that, despite sending several letters, the Pakistani officials did not respond immediately but sent Sardar Alam, a political agent (Tehsildar), to take power over the region. Qasim Naseem, a senior journalist and writer from GB, narrates that Muhammad Ibrahim Khan, one of the signatories, has denied his presence in the agreement. He further argues that if GB as part of Kashmir is a justifiable claim, then the UK could also claim India and Pakistan to be her territory as it was a former British colony.

Indian Politician Dr Karan Singh, son of former Maharaja of Jammu & Kashmir Hari Singh, publicly apologized to the people of Gilgit Baltistan for the forcible occupation of the region by his ancestors. He also said that GB is not part of Kashmir and their reunification is not possible, which must be acknowledged by both Pakistan and India, including the Kashmiri officials. Nosheen Ali argues in her book “Delusional States” that the government of Pakistan linked GB with the Kashmir file to grab more votes in the case of the UN’s plebiscite for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

The pro-Pakistani sentiments among the people of Gilgit Baltistan, coupled with East Pakistan’s historic decision to unite with Pakistan in 1947, both underscored common aspirations for an Islamic state that could ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

But, instead of providing proper governance and administrative structures, the government of Pakistan imposed a draconian and colonial rule, i.e. Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR). It gave a political agent. Subsequently, in 1949, without any representation and consensus of the people of Gilgit Baltistan, the secret agreement was signed with the government of Azad Kashmir that amalgamated the region with the Kasmir file, ruining the freedom struggle of our heroes.

The collective discourse among the people of Gilgit Baltistan, including nationalists, writers, poets, the youth, and various stakeholders, uniformly recognize the agreement as an unlawful act. But surprisingly, the document is still inaccessible on websites or other academic platforms. The larger section of people in Gilgit Baltistan haven’t even read the document because of its inaccessibility; a few people confuse it with the Karachi Agreement signed on 27 July 1949 between the military officials of India and Pakistan for a cease-fire. However, the agreement was revealed for the first time in 1992 by the ‘AJK’ High Court when the court ordered the AJK government to take control of GB.

The local people have grievances with the government of Pakistan, as it has always neglected the region since its inception in 1947 till now. Despite the formal accession of Gilgit and, later on, Baltistan, Pakistan has administered it as a colony by imposing FCR, not abolishing the despotic rajgiri (principality) and jagirdari (feudal) system till the 1970s, and sidelining from mainstream politics.

The people of Gilgit Baltistan cannot cast their votes in general elections nor have representation in the National Assembly. On the other hand, the disparity in governance and political affairs between GB and AJ&K can be seen in the current status of both regions. AJ&K is provided with an autonomous setup, whereas GB is running under a self-governance order with absolute federal government control.

Despite the order of the Supreme Court in 1999 emphasizing the extension of all constitutional and human rights to the people of Gilgit Baltistan, the government has failed to ensure the provision of constitutional rights.

During election years, politicians give lollipops by promising to grant constitutional status to win the election. But the times have changed, and the new generation has learned from past experiences and deprivations and is redefining politics in Gilgit Baltistan. The infamous Karachi treaty lacks credibility in history and contemporary scholarly writings. Therefore, today’s educated young and elder generations in Gilgit-Baltistan view the Agreement as fabricated, an attempt to alter actual history.

Kazakhstan in Post-Soviet Era: Balancing Power, National Sovereignty, and Geopolitical Tensions

By

Mian Ahmad Raza Maneka

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May 30, 2024

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The disintegration of the Russian Federation (Soviet Union) has led to the emergence of various new Central Asian Republics (CARs), such as Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and many others. The CARs are on the path of economic development and playing a pivotal role in regional integration. They are also full of natural resources and can provide these resources, such as gas and oil, to other regional countries.

Economically, the CARs are very strong. Kazakhstan is one of them, having strong economic indicators.

Under the leadership of President Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan has managed to maintain a delicate interethnic balance and foster stability in the region. The country has been actively increasing the agenda of the Russian-Chinese-backed SCO to accomplish strategic objectives. This article highlights various geopolitical aspects of Kazakhstan’s foreign policy and its approach to dealing with regional issues.

The Kazakh President has taken drastic steps to attract foreign investment across the country further. Also, the decision to relocate the capital city to Astana has been widely interpreted as a strategic maneuver to counter likely and potential Russian territorial aspirations. Central Asian countries are adamant about maintaining peace and security on their own and in the region by keeping the balance of power at par. The location of the new capital city of the country Astana (closer to Russia) was intended to serve as a geopolitical buffer to accomplish political and strategic objectives.

Kazakhstan’s foreign policy posture has been asserting its sovereignty over a region with a significant ethnic Russian population.

Kazakhstan is a pivotal CAR, having no hostile agenda and instead focused on the region’s economic development and integration. The only direct threat the country faces is from Putin’s Russia, which is tactical in nature. Despite facing strategic threats, the probability of a direct Russian military threat is limited due to Astana’s extensive and active foreign policy.

Economically speaking, the President of Kazakhstan has secured foreign direct investment from various countries, which made Russia think a hundred times before launching any attack on Astana.

Likewise, the international community has appreciated positive foreign and economic policy directions. As per the economic report 2023 published by the Kazakh Trade Ministry, the country has received $169.2 billion in foreign investment. Countries like the US, China, Russia, and other European states have invested immensely in Kazakhstan’s various sectors. This influx of capital has fortified the country’s economic resilience and international standing, making outright aggression less appealing for any single actor.

Kazakhstan has a caldron of economic activities in Central Asia, creating more economic opportunities for other countries. Many regional and global states are keen to invest to secure better opportunities in the country’s economic market. The export sector of Kazakhstan has been witnessing a massive increase in the past few years, particularly in the post-Covid era, which shows how effectively economic policies are working. As per a government report in 2022, Kazakhstan exported petrol valued at $47.6 billion. China is the largest importer of Kazakh oil and gas industry.

The role of Astana as a major wheat producer, exporting to neighbors such as Iran and Turkey and East Asian markets like China, South Korea, and Japan, further cements its importance in the global economy.

Similarly, the economic bonhomie and interconnectedness diminish the chances of any potential military conflict in Central Asia. An aggressive move by Russia into the North of Kazakhstan will disrupt the region’s stability and jeopardize the substantial investments of multiple powerful nations. Having invested immensely in Kazakhstan, its various NATO states, and China, the US is interested in maintaining Astana’s sovereignty and stability.

Kazakhstan is also essential to the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) to maintain peace and stability in the region. Astana is also part of the SCO and has a pivotal position in the group. Likewise, the country has supported Pakistani requests for membership in the SCO.

Due to the involvement of extra-regional powers in CARs, any threat to Kazakhstan would likely receive a stringent response from the international community, especially America and its NATO members. Economic sanctions, international diplomatic pressure, and increased support for Kazakhstan’s defense capabilities could be key components of a non-military response. The USA and its allies might leverage their economic investments to deter Russian advances, emphasizing the global repercussions of such actions.

The growing Chinese economic presence in Astana has added another layer of complexity to the region’s strategic and economic dynamics. As a major trading partner and investor, China is vested in preventing instability from disrupting its access to Kazakh resources and markets.

Will China Attack Taiwan?

By

Shahzad Masood Roomi

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May 30, 2024

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Recent exercises by PLA Eastern Theatre Command in the Strait of Taiwan and North China Sea after President Xi’s address, in which he emphasized the need to enhance operational preparedness, have stirred a fresh round of World War III talk around the globe. When one looks at the sheer scale of these most recent maritime encirclement drills by PLAN/PLAAF around Taiwan, the traction of such discourse among strategic minds worldwide becomes completely comprehensible.

According to many Western and American geopolitical experts, President Xi’s government may initiate a Taiwan war due to an array of reasons ranging from China’s growing economic problems to isolation in the region (after losing Vietnam and the Philippines to the US over the dispute Parcel and Spratly islands) to running out of diplomatic options for unification of China which remains the core grand strategic objective of Beijing. This is how the message sent by Beijing, which conducted aggressive maritime manoeuvres around Taiwan, was received.

The question at the heart of this debate is: Will China attack Taiwan? There are many strategic and operational reasons why China will NOT attack Taiwan, at least not in the foreseeable future.

First and foremost, Chinese war philosophy is based on Sun Tzu’s Art of War, where the real victory is to subdue the enemy without fighting. Chinese actions regarding Taiwan thus far clearly indicate that China is not looking for an armed conflict but is on a path that will exacerbate incessant Great Power Competition unfolding along the Pacific rim of the Indian Ocean.

This perhaps also explains why President Xi never mentioned the use of force in his address during the California Summit in December 2023. He stirred a lot of US reaction by mentioning the unification of Taiwan with China, but he denied the existence of any military plan for this.

Many experts believe that China’s growing maritime power projection capabilities are proving Beijing’s fresh imputes to take the military route to “solve” the Taiwan problem. Though it is true that during the last 3 years, PLAN has become the world’s largest naval force in terms of the number of vessels, it is yet to surpass the US Navy in terms of overall tonnage. Still, many PLAN consist of smaller vessels lacking range and firepower. China only recently began rolling out ships like Type 52-D and Type-55 destroyers, which are in the same class in terms of weight as the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.

The scale and pace of PLAN modernization are becoming challenging propositions for the US and allied nations in the region. If we look at aircraft carriers, considered the most effective and prominent measure of the strength of any naval force, China didn’t have any aircraft carriers a little over a decade ago; today, it has three, with the latest one in the sea trial phase. Similarly, the Chinese fleet of conventional attack submarines has increased considerably.

Despite the growing number of PLAN and PLAAF, Chinese forces will require a long time to effectively integrate these new war machines into a strategic doctrine and devise operational plans to achieve optimal performance during a showdown. This is where the US forces excel by miles. US Navy, for example, has a history of using aircraft carriers for over a century. It has learned valuable lessons in multiple wars, including 2 World Wars. It has adapted accordingly to put large ships and aircraft carriers in a theatre of war and conduct successful maritime manoeuvres to overcome opposing naval forces.

The US Navy and US Air Force maintain a considerable military presence in the region. For example, Japan’s Kadena Air Force base is the region’s largest air base. Other bases are in Japan and South Korea, and newly built naval bases /stations are in Vietnam and the Philippines. The US Navy operates 11 aircraft carriers with the same number of landing docks, which can act as aircraft carriers if needed.

The military presence adds to power projection and, with a more assertive US policy on Taiwan, will certainly intervene to deter any Chinese military action.

The US has almost shunned strategic ambiguity over its stance on Taiwan, which it has adopted under the Taiwan Relations Act since 1979. Under President Biden’s rule, the support of One China has been abandoned for all practical purposes. He has reiterated at least four times that the US will intervene militarily if China decides to invade Taiwan. The defence of Taiwan is a major cornerstone of US foreign policy.

So, operationally, military action is not an option for Beijing despite conducting aggressive manoeuvres around Taiwan. Taiwan is no longer a bilateral issue. It is potentially the most dangerous geopolitical hotspot that China and the US want to remain cool about, as both need Taiwan for a very specific technological reason: semiconductors.

Semiconductors are why China and the US want a war over Taiwan. Taiwan produces the majority of military-grade, highly complex, and sophisticated semiconductors used in aircraft like B-2, F-22, J-20, and many other critical industries in both countries. Destroying Taiwan in a war will degrade the industrial base in both China and the US.

So there are many reasons why China will not attack Taiwan, from philosophical to political or military to technological. Having said that, the continuous building of the Chinese military machine indicates a long-term strategy by Beijing to wait for such an opportunity when the US could not intervene. However, the prospects of such opportunities are not very bright in the near to midterms. So, China will continue to project its maritime power in the Strait of Taiwan, while Washington will continue to provide more weapons and political support to Taipei for its defence. In the long term, this status quo might change if political and military power’s flow from the West to the East continues.

How Modern Communication Breeds Terrorist Ideology.

By

Amna Talha

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May 30, 2024

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Future Trends In Terrorism And Countermeasures In The Asia Pacific

The internet revolutionized communication, fostering connection, knowledge sharing, and global discourse. But amidst its undeniable benefits lurks a shadow: the exploitation of modern communication tools by terrorist organizations to propagate their ideology and radicalize individuals. Understanding how terrorists leverage these platforms, particularly in the context of psychological warfare through spreading fear and misinformation, is crucial to developing effective counter-measures.

The Allure of Accessibility: Why Modern Communication is Ideal for Terror

Global Reach:

Unlike traditional media with geographical limitations, social media platforms offer a vast, borderless audience. Terrorist groups can bypass traditional media gatekeepers and connect directly with potential recruits across the globe. This removes geographical barriers, allowing them to tap into grievances and disenfranchisement narratives that resonate with individuals far beyond their physical reach.
Tailored Persuasion:

Modern communication allows for sophisticated audience segmentation. Terrorists can craft messages that resonate with specific demographics or exploit pre-existing social, political, and religious tensions. In regions with economic hardship, messages emphasizing economic injustice and promises of retribution might find traction. In areas with sectarian conflict, propaganda can exploit religious tensions, demonizing opposing groups and fueling hatred. This personalization makes propaganda more persuasive, as it feels directly relevant to the grievances of the target audience.
Emotional Manipulation:

Terrorist propaganda often employs graphic imagery and emotionally charged language to evoke fear, anger, and a sense of injustice. By exploiting social anxieties and frustrations, terrorists can manipulate vulnerable individuals and make them more susceptible to radicalization. The constant barrage of violent imagery and hateful rhetoric can desensitize individuals to violence, normalize extremist views, and create a sense of “us vs. them” mentality.
Echo Chambers and Confirmation Bias:

The algorithms on social media platforms can create echo chambers where users are only exposed to information that confirms their existing beliefs. This makes it harder for people to challenge extremist ideologies. Surrounded by a constant stream of content reinforcing their existing views, individuals can become entrenched in their beliefs and more receptive to radical narratives. Additionally, confirmation bias inherent in human psychology leads people to seek out information that validates their pre-existing biases, further deepening their convictions within the echo chamber.
Ease of Use and Dissemination:

Modern communication tools are not only far-reaching but also user-friendly. These platforms allow even non-technical individuals to create and disseminate propaganda. The low barrier to entry allows for a rapid spread of extremist content, making it difficult for authorities and platforms to keep up with the constant churn of online material. This ease of use empowers terrorist organizations to bypass traditional media filters and control their own narrative.

Beyond Platforms: The Broader Ecosystem of Terrorist Communication

While social media platforms are a key battleground, terrorists utilize a wider communication ecosystem:

Encrypted Messaging Apps:

Secure messaging apps offer a safe haven for encrypted communications between terrorists, allowing them to plan attacks, share information, and radicalize potential recruits with an added layer of anonymity. The challenge lies in balancing security needs with the ability to monitor potential threats within these encrypted environments.
Dark Web:

The dark web, a hidden part of the internet accessible only through specialized software, provides terrorists with a platform for even more clandestine activities. Here, they can engage in recruitment, fundraising, and the exchange of extremist propaganda without fear of traditional surveillance methods. Disrupting terrorist activity on the dark web requires international cooperation and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and tech companies.
Online Gaming Communities:

Video games with online communities have become a surprising breeding ground for radicalization. Terrorists exploit these communities to connect with young, impressionable individuals, often using shared interests and a sense of belonging to mask their extremist agendas. This tactic requires a multi-pronged approach, involving measures by gaming platforms to monitor suspicious activity and outreach programs that promote tolerance and community building within these online spaces.

Terror 2.0: Evolving Tactics and the Need for Adaptable Responses

The landscape of online terrorism is constantly evolving. Here are some emerging trends that require our attention:

Livestreaming Attacks:

The use of live-streaming platforms to broadcast attacks in real-time has become a disturbing tactic. These live broadcasts aim to maximize fear, incite panic, and inspire copycat attacks. Developing rapid takedown procedures and fostering a culture of responsible online behavior are crucial in mitigating the impact of such events (Europol. EU Internet Referral Unit (EU IRU) 2022 Report.).
Gamification of Radicalization:

Terrorist groups are increasingly using gamified elements, such as points, badges, and leaderboards, to appeal to younger audiences. These tactics exploit the competitive nature of online gaming and provide a sense of accomplishment for engaging with extremist content. Countering this strategy requires promoting positive online experiences that foster social connection and healthy competition.
Social Media Manipulation Techniques:

Terrorist groups are becoming more sophisticated in their use of social media manipulation techniques. This includes exploiting algorithms to spread content rapidly, using bots to inflate engagement, and creating fake accounts to impersonate legitimate sources. Social media platforms need to invest in more sophisticated content moderation tools and algorithms to detect and remove this type of manipulative activity (Social Science Research Network. Social Media and Violent Extremism.)

Countering the Narrative: Building Resilience in the Digital Age

Combating the psychological warfare tactics of terrorists requires a multifaceted approach:

Fact-Checking and Media Literacy:

Promoting media literacy and critical thinking skills empowers individuals to identify and challenge misinformation online. Supporting fact-checking initiatives like First Draft News and promoting independent journalism can help ensure a more accurate flow of information.
Countering Fear with Hope:

It’s crucial to counter fear-mongering narratives with messages of hope and resilience. Amplifying stories of peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and positive community initiatives through platforms like Peacebuilding Community can help to counteract the negativity spread by terrorists and create a sense of empowerment.
Addressing the Root Causes:

To truly dismantle the appeal of terrorist ideology, we need to address the root causes of radicalization, such as social injustice, economic disenfranchisement, and a lack of opportunities. Programs that promote social inclusion, economic development, and education, like those offered by The World Bank, can help to create a more just and peaceful society.

The Way Forward: A Collective Responsibility and Call to Action

The fight against terrorist exploitation of modern communication is a collective responsibility. By recognizing the psychological warfare tactics employed by terrorists, promoting media literacy, fostering counter-narratives of hope, and addressing the root causes of radicalization, we can create a more secure and inclusive online space for all. Modern communication, when harnessed for good, can be a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and tolerance.

Gaza Conflict: A Turning Point in Israel-Palestine Relations

By

Senator Gian Chand

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May 29, 2024

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The ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict has been reshaping the entire political, economic, and strategic landscape of the entire Middle East. This conflict is undeniably proving to be a watershed moment in the already volatile ties of Israel-Palestine, which has further intensified the fragile environment of the Middle East. Additionally, the root cause of the conflict can be traced back to Israel’s aggressive posture and illegitimate actions against the innocent people of Palestine. The attack on Gaza came amid rumors of the normalization of more states with Israel, including Saudi Arabia. Without any doubt, the conflict has created a humanitarian catastrophe, with thousands of Gazans killed since October 7 last year.

The wounded people are starving and struggling to get medical aid because of the embargo imposed by Israeli authorities.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have killed thousands of Palestinians while resorting to unprovoked violence in the Gaza Strip. International community, organizations, and human rights watchdogs have been warning regarding possible humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip. However, Israeli authorities refused to pay heed to the warning and continued to attack the defenseless people of Gaza.

In the last few weeks, Israeli authorities have attacked hospitals and schools in Gaza, which made the lives of people miserable. In the aftermath of seven months of conflict, the initial narrative surrounding the 7th October attacks has been challenged by various intelligence reports and experts. There is a growing belief that Israel’s Prime Intelligence Agency, Mossad, had prior knowledge of the impending attack. Hamas, having prepared for a year, was not operating in complete secrecy, and Mossad, known for its extensive penetration into the West Bank, Gaza, and the broader Middle East, could not have been completely unaware of such preparations. This raises critical questions about whether Israel deliberately allowed the attack to unfold to justify a large-scale military response against Gaza.

The attack by Hamas attack on Israel came in defense as the Israeli government under PM Netanyahu is determined to occupy the entire Gaza through the use of force. Israel’s quest for the occupation of Gaza has further complicated the situation, and the chances of ceasefire and peace are slightly dim due to the warmongering policies of the Israeli war cabinet. If this same situation prevails for another couple of months, the population of Gaza may be wiped out due to severe food shortages.

Israel wants to grab the maximum land of Palestinian people to settle more Jewish communities. Its quest for more lands is synonymous with greater security and strategic depth.

Unfortunately, Israel has been ignoring all the ethos of democracy. Given the demographic proximity between Jewish and Muslim populations in what could be considered Greater Israel (including Gaza and the West Bank), Israel cannot afford a single democratic state where both populations coexist under equal citizenship.

Likewise, the two-state theory is the only possible scenario when discussing the solution to the Gaza conflict. The chances of peace without a two-state solution are dim and may escalate the conflict. The concept of a two-state solution has long been a point of contention. Despite pressure from the US for an independent and contiguous Palestinian state, the current political and military leadership of Tel Aviv effectively rejected the concept. The recent report by the US intelligence fraternity implies Israel may launch a full-scale attack soon on innocent people of Palestine to wipe out the Muslim population. The war cabinet of Israel comprising hardliners provided the perfect pretext for this genocidal campaign.

The recent Gaza-Israel conflict has also reshaped public opinion not only in the US but also in Western states. A large number of people are expressing their frustration and annoyance against their governments for supporting the illegitimate actions of Israel. Research polls in various Western states imply that almost 60-70% of youth with proper education kept anti-Israel sentiments. In a major breakthrough, many European states, such as Spain, Norway, and Ireland, have recently announced their acceptance of Palestine as an independent state. This decision will likely encourage more states to recognize Palestine as independent.

Amid ongoing agitations against Israel, various states in the West and the US have decided to yield to public pressure and reduced support for Israel, be it political, economic, or military.

The conflict in Gaza has also clearly exposed the fault lines in Israeli defense. Despite having the world’s best defense equipment and the backing of European as well as American administrations, Israel has suffered massive setbacks, which are raising valid and serious questions regarding the efficacy of its air defense and intelligence agencies. Hamas breached Israeli defenses on 7th October. Likewise, the Iranian attacks on Israel have also left negative marks on Israeli defense policies and preparations for war.

Notably, on 13th April 2024, Iran directly attacked Israel from its soil, challenging the myth of Israeli deterrence. Despite facing harsh conditions and military attacks from Israel, the people of Gaza are strong with high spirits. The 7th October tragedy highlighted the Palestinians’ determination and love for their homeland. This unwavering spirit has garnered global sympathy and support for the Palestinian cause, further isolating Israel in the international arena.

The Global Struggle is Deepening

By

Kanan Heydarov

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May 29, 2024

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The balance established in the 20th century has been superseded. In the 21st century, there is a geopolitical movement across the globe, with a redistribution of power. The war of division has commenced anew. We are in a period of political sabotage and assassinations. Furthermore, there is a conflict between nation-states and globalists, who have a global project based on international non-governmental organizations outside the nation-states and within the states. Something similar is happening in Georgia.

What are the objectives of the globalists and what is the rationale behind this conflict? The new system is characterized by a multi-polar world.

The work of the global institutions established after the Second World War is currently experiencing significant difficulties. It is important to note that the United Nations is unable to make a new decision. The United Nations is comprised of five key member states, and it has become increasingly challenging for these countries to reach a consensus on matters of common interest.

One of the primary sources of contention is the French state. France’s global influence is waning. France has experienced a decline in its influence in Africa, and now it is the turn of New Caledonia. Russia has assumed a position of prominence in Africa, displacing FranceThe ongoing conflict is further complicated by the fact that the countries under French control are now seeking to establish their independence.

A rivalry for dominance exists between France and Germany within the European Union. The events currently unfolding in the countries under the control of France will likely intensify and expand. Global French influence is being eroded.

In the previous international order, the balance of power was primarily between the United States of America and the United Kingdom. The balance of power is now transforming. The United States of America is seeking to reinforce its global dominance and establish a new world order. However, the challenge lies in the fact that the global financial center in London will have to exert some degree of control over this process. The process commenced with the conclusion of the Second World War, during which the global authority of the United Kingdom was transferred to the United States of America.

It is noteworthy that the conflict between the USA and Britain has its origins in the War of 1812 and continues to the present day.

The United States of America is engaged in a power struggle with England. This conflict commences in Canada and extends to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. The United States is engaged in significant military operations in the Asia-Pacific region, with the measures against China intensifying, particularly in the context of a military build-up. It is becoming increasingly likely that a war in the Asia-Pacific region will occur imminently.

The United States has a Chinese project in the Asia Pacific, and to concentrate on this project, it is necessary to achieve peace in the Middle East. The City of London, which has a vested interest in maintaining the status quo in the Middle East, is attempting to prevent the United States from pivoting towards the Asia-Pacific region. This is how the Hamas attack on Israel commenced. An attempt was made to involve Iran in the conflict, but this proved unsuccessful.

To put it another way, the intensity of the war in the Middle East means that the United States is unable to focus on the Asia-Pacific region. The global mind in the City of London wants the tension in the Middle East to continue in order not to lose China. To this end, they have increased pressure on Iran, which poses a risk to Israel.

The plans for dealing with Iran are highly complex and require a great deal of attention. A war between Iran and the Middle East would prevent the United States from turning its attention to the Asia-Pacific region.

The helicopter crash of the Iranian President and Prime Minister was not an isolated incident. The Iranian President delivered a speech at a meeting with the President of Azerbaijan. He indicated that some are disinclined to our presence here and our collaboration with the Turks.

Should the United States succeed in establishing peace in the Middle East and subsequently direct its attention to the Asia-Pacific region, this would significantly diminish the influence of the Global Power and the City of London Globalists in China and the Asia-Pacific.

The United States initiated the process of dismantling the Commonwealth structure of the City of London in 1812. This is how the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union should be viewed. The global influence of the City of London Globalists in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions is becoming increasingly constrained.

The advent of the new world order system, initiated by the USA, has seen the reduction of the power of the global mind in the City of London. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East serves to divert attention from the Chinese. The BRICS structure is similarly significant in preventing the global influence of the USA from expanding further.

The United States is attempting to establish peace in the Middle East by implementing significant changes to the political and economic structures of the region. Nevertheless, this approach is opposed by those with a globalist mindset on the other side. In the wake of the demise of the Iranian President, Iran will probably adopt a more radical and punitive stance.

U.S. Military Aid to Israel: A Barrier to Peace and a Catalyst to War

By

Waleed Ahmad Khan

-

May 28, 2024

0

The U.S. President has signed legislation allocating $9.4 billion in foreign funds out of $17 billion in military aid to Israel. US military aid in accordance with its commitments to Israel’s security and shared foreign policy interest in volatile and strategic necessary concerns. Historically, Israel has received thousands of pieces of military assistance, especially from the United States since 1948, still in contemporary supporting Israel, especially going war between Palestine and Israel along with Tensions with Iran.

In this regard, military support for Israel acts as a barrier to regional and global peace, and stability increases the intensity of war. The Israeli-Palestinian war has continued for seven months. 34,000 people were reported killed, including innocent children killed in Israeli airstrikes and ground attacks.

Approximately 1.7 million people were displaced, destruction of infrastructure, education systems, health care and communications systems.

The humanitarian crisis has been caused by Israel’s use of military force against Palestinians. Palestinians have been experiencing war and fever for seven months already. Instead of calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the United States announced $17 billion in military aid to Israel, which will create a barrier to peace and stability in Gaza. U.S. military support for Israel could impact peace and stability in the Gaza Strip and could potentially contribute to increased conflict in Israel.

The ability to use more force in Gaza against Palestinians. This could exacerbate tensions and lead to a humanitarian crisis, cause civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, and create a vicious cycle of violence and instability in the region that could intensify hostilities. A barrier to peace and stability.

The war in Palestine is increasing regional tensions between Israel and Iran’s Hamas. Iran is constantly accused of supporting Palestinian groups in the October 7 attack on Israel, and tensions are rising. On December 25, Israel killed Iran’s top general in Syria. In response, tensions rose. Iran launches a missile and attacks Israel. Iran’s Israeli attack on Isfahan has heightened the conflict, and tensions remain due to recently announced military aid to Israel.

The aid package includes military weapons systems that would strengthen Israel’s military capabilities to threaten Iran and intensify the arms race in the region in response to Israeli attacks on the Iranian city of Isfahan.

It impacted the world and increased tension. U.S. military support for Israel could lead to increased aggression against Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas, which could lead to airstrikes and retaliatory attacks, creating instability and unrest. Currently, tensions between Israel and Iran are increasing, raising the possibility that the United States and Russia will become involved in a conflict that would destabilize the region.

U.S. military support hinders diplomatic efforts that give Israel a significant military advantage over Iran, threatens peace, and strengthens the bottom line. US military support for Israel is a troubling issue and a challenge to peace and stability. As the war continued in Palestine without a ceasefire, the United States announced a military aid package that worsened the war and humanitarian crisis in Palestine. Israel is killing innocent Palestinians.

The escalating conflict in Palestine, exacerbated by the USA’s support for its allies, has created a dire humanitarian crisis marked by increasing devastation and loss of life. Despite global calls for peace, there’s a notable absence of concerted international efforts to end the war. Meanwhile, voices advocating for Palestine are gaining momentum worldwide. Given that a robust economy is vital for state stability, Israel may face challenges sustaining the war if economic pressures are effectively leveraged.

Pakistan and other Muslim countries are quietly avoiding buying things from big Western companies that they think support Israel. This is making companies like McDonald’s, Pepsi, Coke, KFC, and Nestle sell less stuff in these countries. Some of these companies are even closing some of their shops. If countries keep putting pressure on Israel like this, it might make them stop what they’re doing in Gaza.

By hurting Israel’s economy, there’s a chance to make them stop using power in Gaza and try to solve the problem peacefully.

The international system, especially the United States need to put pressure on Israel to stop and end the bombing, which can be achieved by ending military support and economic threats, which could force Israel to end the war in Palestine.

Tensions between Israel and Iran must also be eased, and the escalation of conflict and involvement of China, Russia, and the USA in this conflict will intensify tensions more if steps aren’t taken to end the ongoing war in Palestine and Israel- Iran tensions. This will soon lead to a humanitarian crisis that will impact regional and global security.

Balochistan’s Path to Peace and Prosperity in the Wake of Shambay’s Capture

By

M Luqman Butt

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May 27, 2024

0

The arrest of terrorist Gulzar Imam Alias Shambay was a watershed moment in the ongoing war against militancy in Baluchistan. Shambay was an active and prominent member of the terrorist group and was also involved in various attacks. He was the mastermind of attacks on military installations. His capture by law enforcement agencies set the stage for a renewed focus on reconciliation and national integration of the province.

Gulzar Imam Alias Shambay’s arrest has also allowed other non-state actors to become part of mainstream politics by giving away militancy.

Also, more disgruntled elements who fought against the state have left militant organizations to become part of the system for the province’s development. The arrest of Shambay sent shockwaves through the BNA, creating a leadership vacuum and triggering internal conflicts over resources and finances. His rise and subsequent fall were akin to thriller novels, with his dramatic confession before a room filled with media persons in Quetta acknowledging his past misguidance. Shambay’s pivotal role in uniting various militant groups under the BNA meant that his absence led to the group’s rapid disintegration.

The case of Sarfaraz Bangulzai’s surrender and his men showcased the state’s willingness to embrace those seeking peace and unity. This reconciliation weakened the insurgency and sent a powerful message to other militants about the benefits of laying down arms. Another notable development was the death of Nawaz Ali Rind, a commander of BLF, due to infighting within the group, further fracturing the insurgent landscape.

These developments have reignited a sense of shared identity and belonging among the province’s people. Now, many terrorists are seeing their future in the province as peaceful citizens. It is a good omen that the people of Baluchistan have identified the real culprits who played with the development of the province by attacking security forces and innocent people. Those non-state actors used the name of the province at the behest of hostile elements and also maligned the Pakistani government and armed forces. But the time is up for them now. The brave people of the province won’t tolerate such elements.

The state has recognized the challenges the locals face and the harm inflicted by misguided dissidents. Federal and provincial governments, with the help of the armed forces, are offering opportunities for success, including improved access to education and employment to youth. They are taking all necessary steps according to the whims and wishes of the Baloch people.

The actions of LEAs and border management mechanisms at the Pak-Afghan border have significantly improved the province’s security situation, making it tough for anti-state elements to cross the border.

Shambay’s arrest called for reconciliation by the state for dissidents to return to the mainstream and contribute to a peaceful environment, which proved to help mitigate and curb the challenges in the province.

Baloch people are standing shoulder to shoulder with the government and armed forces to eradicate the menace of terrorism and extremism. Patriotic Baloch individuals stand united against anarchists by being agile, festive, and collective, coordinating effectively with security forces and intelligence agencies. This unity aims to deny space to those who seek to disrupt the peace and stability of Balochistan.

Still, a few anti-Pakistan elements are maligning our government and armed forces over flimsy grounds. But people have exposed them. These non-state elements have been using multi-pronged strategies to exploit various issues in the province, such as tarnishing the image of Pakistan’s image locally and internationally. These elements also attack foreign nationals and projects in the province to fulfill the agenda of hostile elements.

Likewise, Shamabay’s arrest could have been an excellent conclusion to the first act, but much work remains to be done. It is high time that the state sits with the locals and carves out a fool-proof plan to materialize reconciliation and national integration and address the region’s challenges.

All stakeholders must work together towards a peaceful and prosperous future for Balochistan, embracing diversity and inclusivity.

The State of Pakistan seems to have recognized the challenges faced by locals in Balochistan and the harm inflicted by misguided dissidents. Through various initiatives, the government offers opportunities for success, such as access to education, employment, and the exploration of mineral resources. These measures aim to bring prosperity to Balochistan and uplift its residents.

Safeguarding Pakistan’s National Security Interests

By

Prof. Nazir Hussain

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May 27, 2024

0

Every state has fundamental national security interests based on which it interacts and intercedes with other states in the regional/international arena. The pursuance of these interests often creates alliances and regional grouping, resulting in conflicts and wars. John Collins defines national interests as the basic needs and wants of a nation; he has given several national security interests of a state such as survival, sovereignty, self-sufficiency, fundamental institutions, values and honour (John M. Collins, Grand Strategy, 1973). The fulfilment of these national security interests requires means, which are described as elements of national power (Hans J. Morgenthau, Politics Among Nations, 1948). Ray Cline has given a mathematical formula to determine the national means available, (Ray S. Cline, World Power Assessment 1977);

PP = (C + E + M) x (S + W)

PP is Perceived Power

C is Critical Mass i.e. Geography and Population

E is Economy

M is Military

S stands for Strategic Purpose i.e. National Interests

W stands for Will to carry out/implement the National Interests

Importantly, it is not the entire nation that determines or formulates national security interests but a few elites who are at the helm of affairs and knitted in the decision-making apparatus formulate various policies and strategies to attain these interests. Graham T. Allison has presented three decision-making models (Essence of Decision: Explaining the Cuban Missile Crisis, 1971); Rational Actor Model (RAM), as the dominant individual process, Organizational Process Model (OPM), which is the interplay of various national institutions, and Bureaucratic Political Model (BPM), which is the political competition within the bureaucracies.

However, Clausewitz considers that national decision-making is concentrated at the Centre of Gravity (Carl von Clausewitz, On War, 1832), and this Centre of Gravity differs from state to state. Therefore, national security interests are a combination of goals/objectives to be achieved through available national means with effective policies/strategies formulated by the national leadership.

The creation of Pakistan was a miracle, within seven years, a nation-state was born due to a selfless leadership who had a clear vision helped by national fervour.

Right from the beginning, Pakistan had to fight for its survival, which ultimately led to the dismemberment of the country in 1971 due to a leadership crisis, the absence of a constitution, a lack of clear vision and policies, and military intervention. Nonetheless, Pakistan made successful inroads into various fields; Oil and Gas Development Company (1961) and Pakistan Steel Mills (1971) were established with the assistance and support of the Soviet Union.

Importantly, Pakistan gave a loan of $25 million to West Germany in 1963, and in the 1970s Pakistan became the principal factor in the socio-economic uplift of the Arab Gulf States. However, since the mid-1970s, due to institutional clashes, lack of sound vision and long-term policies, leadership crisis and external manoeuvrings, Pakistan suffered political instability, ultimately giving birth to economic instability.

Despite, tremendous human and material resources, Pakistan could not harness its true potential. Also, the conflict with India and Afghanistan was used to perpetuate political legitimacy and golden opportunities were missed to have lasting peace with the neighbouring states.

In the kinetic realm, Pakistan made tremendous strides and successfully met all the challenges. Starting with the US arms embargo of 1965, Pakistan embarked on a program of self-sufficiency and established Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF), Heavy Mechanical Complex (HMC) and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) with the help of China. Subsequently, Pakistan developed its armoured tank, light aircraft, and then state-of-the-art JF Thunder.

In 1974, India conducted its nuclear explosion and Pakistan initiated its nuclear program, despite severe sanctions from the US and the cancellation of a nuclear processing plant by France, Pakistan was able to achieve nuclear parity. In 1986, India held its massive military exercise ‘Brasstacks’ along the Pakistani border in Rajasthan and challenged Pakistan. Through an interview of AQ Khan with an Indian journalist Kuldip Nayar revealing a ‘bomb in the basement’ the situation was neutralized culminating in the ‘cricket diplomacy.’

In 1998 the regional strategic balance of power was drastically altered in the wake of Indian nuclear explosions, despite immense international pressure, Pakistan successfully restored that by conducting six nuclear explosions enunciated the ‘minimum credible deterrence’ doctrine, and continued to enhance the capabilities of its strategic assets. Though the Kargil war (1999) proved to be a misadventure, in the aftermath of the attack on the Indian parliament, India amassed massive troops along Pakistani borders resulting in a military standoff in 2001-02. The 11-month standoff was eased out when Pakistan signalled to use non-conventional weapons to defend itself.

In 2011, the US/NATO forces attacked Salala Chek Post inside the Pakistani territory, Pakistan stopped the US/NATO supplies for nine months, and it was restored only after an excuse from the US. In 2019, India violated Pakistan’s airspace and challenged its sovereignty, the response was very severe, shooting down Indian aircraft and arresting the pilot. In 2024, in response to the Iranian missile strikes inside Pakistani territory, again Pakistan responded severely and swiftly to reestablish its deterrence capability. However, since 1979, the cross-border and home-grown terrorist activities were not ably controlled due to the mismatch of military and political objectives, and as a result of an incoherent counter-terrorism strategy.

The OBL and Raymond Davis cases along with drone strikes and the ‘Do More’ mantra were political expediencies and the result of wrong priorities.

In the contemporary digital and technological age with an unprecedented flow of scientific knowledge, Pakistan cannot afford to have a persistent politico-economic crisis at the alter of its development and progression as a vibrant state. The added emphasis is on non-traditional/human security, to fight the battle of ideas and a war of narratives. Pakistan possesses immense potential as per the Ray S. Cline formula; the pivot geostrategic positioning, 5th largest population with 2/3rd under the age of 35, 4th largest online/freelance workforce, 6th largest labour force, availability of 4th largest irrigation land and 7th largest/powerful armed force.

The country has 2nd largest coal reserves, 5th largest gold and copper reserves and 2nd largest salt mines (See Table I). Importantly, what it lacks is Human Resource Development, Governance, Science and Technology education, and above all sound/viable long-term policies (See Table II).

Unfortunately, even the required official data is not available to formulate any futuristic perspective. Due to the lack of vision and foresightedness, Pakistan never enunciated its national interest publicly and never tried to formulate its national security policy to achieve these. A half-hearted effort was made in 2014 to bring out National Internal Security Policy but it suffered implementation syndrome. Eventually, in 2022, Pakistan’s national security interests were publicly enunciated in the National Security Policy of Pakistan 2022-2026 document (NSD, 2022). The NSP highlighted several important objectives to be achieved; national cohesion, economic security, defence and territorial integrity, internal security, foreign relations and human security.

This may not be the perfect blueprint for Pakistan’s national security interests, let this document be debated, revised and then passed by the parliament to make it a consensus national document. Pakistan should prepare a short-term policy on Vision 2030 and a long-term policy on Vision 2047 (Centennial of Pakistan), the academia is ready to play its role in this regard and let all national institutions join hands together. Pakistan needs a comprehensive national security policy and substantial changes in the decision-making apparatus to formulate and pursue national security interests (Nazir Hussain, “A National Security Policy for Pakistan” 2021).

Moreover, in the economic realm, there is huge potential in the blue economy of Pakistan, which is projected to raise $100 billion in revenues (Nazir Hussain, “Pakistan’s Blue Economy Potential, Challenges and Prospects” 2022). To effectively project the Pakistani perspective and its soft image to the world, a state-of-the-art and internationally standard media outlet is most required.

There are many unplaced priorities and many issues to be revised, such as CPEC and IP gas pipeline projects, which are strategically important for Pakistan, instead of these proving game changers have been compromised due to external pressures.

Pakistan needs to take some hard and unpopular decisions and its national security interests are to be clearly defined with consensus through parliament and publicly enunciated to get the national support.

These are to be converted into policy objectives/strategies to be achieved through a revamped decision-making structured on the Organizational Process Model with vision and foresightedness into sound short-term and long-term goals.

There is an abundance of human capital and national resources, which require dedicated and selfless leadership with full public support to convert and achieve national security interests. So far, Pakistan’s national security interests were being safeguarded randomly with pick-and-chose priority, let there be a comprehensive national priority and step-by-step approach to define, formulate and achieve them with full national zeal, velour and force.

PERCEIVED POWER OF PAKISTAN-I

Element Weight Global Ranking Source

Geography	796,095 sq km	37/196	CIA-World Fact Book
Population	240 million	5 (1.98% growth)	UNDP
Economy	$1.2688 trillion $338.24 billion	22 46	CIA-WFB IMF
Irrigation Land	193,400 sq km	4/145	CIA-WFB
Youth Bulge		64% <30	UNDP
Labor Force	78.863 million	6	CIA-WFB
Online Freelancing	5 million	4	Oxford Internet Institute (OII)
Military Global Firepower Index (GFI) 2024 Manpower/equipment/ Financial stability/ Available resources/ Geographic location	560,000 personnel $6.27 billion Def Budget 0.1694	7 7/145	IISS/Military Balance GFI
Natural Resources	2nd largest Coal reserves, 5th largest Gold reserves 5th largest Copper reserves 2nd largest Salt mines		Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP)

PERCEIVED POWER OF PAKISTAN-II

Element Weight Global Ranking Source

Account Balance	$11.998 billion (-) $22.235 billion (-)	188	CIA-WFB IMF
Foreign Exchange Reserves	$9.927 billion (2022) $14.458 (2024)	67	CIA-WFB State Bank of Pakistan
Foreign Debt	$107.527 b (2019) PKR36,976.9 (2024) ($127b)	54	CIA-WFB State Bank of Pakistan
Industrial Performance Index		82/152	UNIDO
Human Dev Index	0.544	164/193	UNDP
Education	58% (25 million children out of school)	136	World Population Review
S&T/Global Innovation Index		88	World Intellectual Property Org (WIPO)
Internet users	48.3 million (21% of population)	21	CIA-WFB
Governance Control of Corruption/ Control of Crime	0.318	157	World Governance Index/World Bank
Prosperity Index Safety & Security/ Personal Freedom/ Social Capital/ Living Conditions		136/167	Legatum Prosperity Index
Global Resilience Index Business Environment/ Economic Risks/ Political Risks/ Climate Risks/ Health Risks	25.9	124	FM Global

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One can see the desperation for securing the third-time premiership by putting several politicians from the opposition under investigation or putting rest behind bars like Arvind Kejriwal.

By tarnishing Pakistan and the Indian Muslim minority, Modi aims to gain greater support from Hindus and secure the PM ship for the third time.

The primary focus here is to shed light on the Karachi Agreement, which reshaped Gilgit Baltistan’s destiny, plunging it into an unending constitutional crisis rather than delving into the historical explanation.

The pro-Pakistani sentiments among the people of Gilgit Baltistan, coupled with East Pakistan’s historic decision to unite with Pakistan in 1947, both underscored common aspirations for an Islamic state that could ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

Despite the order of the Supreme Court in 1999 emphasizing the extension of all constitutional and human rights to the people of Gilgit Baltistan, the government has failed to ensure the provision of constitutional rights.

Economically, the CARs are very strong. Kazakhstan is one of them, having strong economic indicators.

Kazakhstan’s foreign policy posture has been asserting its sovereignty over a region with a significant ethnic Russian population.

The role of Astana as a major wheat producer, exporting to neighbors such as Iran and Turkey and East Asian markets like China, South Korea, and Japan, further cements its importance in the global economy.

The question at the heart of this debate is: Will China attack Taiwan? There are many strategic and operational reasons why China will NOT attack Taiwan, at least not in the foreseeable future.

The military presence adds to power projection and, with a more assertive US policy on Taiwan, will certainly intervene to deter any Chinese military action.

The Allure of Accessibility: Why Modern Communication is Ideal for Terror

Global Reach:

Tailored Persuasion:

Emotional Manipulation:

Echo Chambers and Confirmation Bias:

Ease of Use and Dissemination:

Beyond Platforms: The Broader Ecosystem of Terrorist Communication

Encrypted Messaging Apps:

Dark Web:

Online Gaming Communities:

Terror 2.0: Evolving Tactics and the Need for Adaptable Responses

Livestreaming Attacks:

Gamification of Radicalization:

Social Media Manipulation Techniques:

Countering the Narrative: Building Resilience in the Digital Age

Fact-Checking and Media Literacy:

Countering Fear with Hope:

Addressing the Root Causes:

The Way Forward: A Collective Responsibility and Call to Action

The wounded people are starving and struggling to get medical aid because of the embargo imposed by Israeli authorities.

Israel wants to grab the maximum land of Palestinian people to settle more Jewish communities. Its quest for more lands is synonymous with greater security and strategic depth.

Amid ongoing agitations against Israel, various states in the West and the US have decided to yield to public pressure and reduced support for Israel, be it political, economic, or military.

What are the objectives of the globalists and what is the rationale behind this conflict? The new system is characterized by a multi-polar world.

It is noteworthy that the conflict between the USA and Britain has its origins in the War of 1812 and continues to the present day.

The plans for dealing with Iran are highly complex and require a great deal of attention. A war between Iran and the Middle East would prevent the United States from turning its attention to the Asia-Pacific region.

Approximately 1.7 million people were displaced, destruction of infrastructure, education systems, health care and communications systems.

The aid package includes military weapons systems that would strengthen Israel’s military capabilities to threaten Iran and intensify the arms race in the region in response to Israeli attacks on the Iranian city of Isfahan.

By hurting Israel’s economy, there’s a chance to make them stop using power in Gaza and try to solve the problem peacefully.

Gulzar Imam Alias Shambay’s arrest has also allowed other non-state actors to become part of mainstream politics by giving away militancy.

The actions of LEAs and border management mechanisms at the Pak-Afghan border have significantly improved the province’s security situation, making it tough for anti-state elements to cross the border.

All stakeholders must work together towards a peaceful and prosperous future for Balochistan, embracing diversity and inclusivity.

The creation of Pakistan was a miracle, within seven years, a nation-state was born due to a selfless leadership who had a clear vision helped by national fervour.

The OBL and Raymond Davis cases along with drone strikes and the ‘Do More’ mantra were political expediencies and the result of wrong priorities.

Pakistan needs to take some hard and unpopular decisions and its national security interests are to be clearly defined with consensus through parliament and publicly enunciated to get the national support.

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