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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.
What Does China and Iran’s Proposed Military and Trade Pact Mean for Pakistan?
By Umair Jamal
Growing ties between Tehran and Beijing comes as good news to Islamabad.
India Needs to Fast-Track a Border Solution, Lest It Lose Nepal
By Birat Anupam
With anti-India sentiment growing in Nepal over the border dispute, it’s time for New Delhi to take action toward a resolution.
Taliban Make Big Changes Ahead of Expected Talks With Kabul
By Associated Press
The shuffle is meant to tighten Taliban leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhunzada’s control over the movement's military and political arms.
Absentee Ballots? Re-enfranchising India’s Migrant Workers
By Bansari Kamdar
As India’s internal migrant workers return to cities desperate for work, without a change in policy they could be left out of important upcoming elections.
Remembering President Daoud’s Coup: Lessons for Afghanistan’s Future
By Arwin Rahi
The domestic and diplomatic blunders of Mohammad Daoud continue to loom large in Afghanistan, almost 50 years later.
The Resurgence of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan
By Tarun Nair
The reintegration of the Hakimullah Mehsud group is the latest sign of the militant group’s ambitions and reach.
Vikas Dubey and the Problem of ‘Encounter Killings’ in India
By StoriesAsia
When the police themselves seem to break the law, who will hold them to account?
Minorities Under Attack as Prime Minister Imran Khan Pushes ‘Tolerant’ Pakistan
By Associated Press
Khan preaches a tolerant vision for Pakistan, but also cedes power to extreme Islamic clerics.
China’s Engagement With Nepal’s Ruling Party Troubles India
By StoriesAsia
China’s ascendance in Nepali politics sends a strong message to India.
Uzair Baloch, the Pakistan People’s Party, and the 18th Constitutional Amendment
By Umair Jamal
How a gangster from Karachi may become central to one of Pakistan’s defining constitutional amendments.
History of Tibet-Ladakh Relations and Their Modern Implications
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
History casts a long shadow in the Himalayas.
Pakistan’s Kashmir Policy Post-Article 370
By Majid Alam
Imran Khan seemed content to sideline the Kashmir issue until India’s power move forced his hand.