Blog
The Pulse
South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.
Al-Qaida Leader Circulates Video; Dispels Rumor of His Death
By Kathy Gannon
Rumors of the death of Ayman al-Zawahri have persistently circulated, but a new video appears to dispel those rumors.
Rajapaksa Clan Losing Grip on Power in Sri Lanka
By Sudha Ramachandran
The ruling coalition, which commanded a two-thirds majority last month, is now battling for survival.
Donors Fall Short on Afghan Aid Pledges Amid Widening International Rifts
By Catherine Putz
Divergences in approaches to Afghanistan map onto wider divergences between the United States and its allies and China, Russia, and their partners.
Sri Lanka’s Economic Crisis: An Opportunity for India to Reclaim Influence
By Mark S. Cogan and Dr. Dalbir Ahlawat
Continued instability on the island will have repercussions in India. That will be a burden for India, not for China.
India Rolls out Red Carpet for Russian Foreign Minister
By Mohamed Zeeshan
The West has warned India of consequences if it helps Moscow circumvent sanctions but this has not gone down well in Delhi
Sri Lanka Opposition Rejects Proposed Unity Government
By Krishan Francis
On Sunday, after large protests, all 26 Cabinet ministers resigned. President Rajapaksa's proposed unity government was refused and protests continue.
All Eyes on Supreme Court as Pakistan’s Political Crisis Deepens
By Umair Jamal
The political and constitutional crisis has only just begun. Violence looms and the military is watching
Pakistan in Political Turmoil as PM Imran Khan Dissolves Parliament
By Kathy Gannon and Munir Ahmed
The political drama has moved now to the Supreme Court, which must rule on the legality of Khan's decision.
Government Change in Islamabad Will Not Derail China-Pakistan Relations
By Krzysztof Iwanek
Chinese projects in Pakistan are too strong to be uprooted by the possible fall of Imran Khan’s government.
‘I Will Not Resign,’ Says Pakistani PM Ahead of No-Confidence Vote
By Kathy Gannon
In his speech to the nation, Imran Khan claimed that the U.S. had conspired with the Pakistani opposition to oust him.
UN Seeks Record $4.4 Billion for Afghans Struggling Under Taliban
By Jamey Keaten and Kathy Gannon
"Without immediate action we face a starvation and malnutrition crisis in Afghanistan," U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.
China Strongly Backs Afghanistan at Regional Conference
By Associated Press
Afghanistan has been partially successful in boosting stability, improving livelihoods, and protecting human rights, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said.