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.
Virus Toll in Iran Climbs as Lockdowns Deepen Across Middle East
By Associated Press
Iran’s coronavirus crisis continues to worsen.
Afghan Government Postpones Prisoner Release, Endangers Deal
By Associated Press
The U.S.-Taliban deal was touted at the time as the best chance at ending Afghanistan's endless wars.
Behind Pakistani Feminists’ Fight for Rights
By Kaukab Tahir Shairani
Women in Pakistan are bearing the brunt of the country’s Islamic political ideology, in addition to its patriarchy.
Ahead of Holi Holiday, Indian American Students Protest Hindutva
By Bansari Kamdar
After an outbreak of violence in Delhi, the young Indian diaspora in the United States is speaking out.
Press Freedom in Kashmir: Local and International Journalists Under Pressure
By Bilal Hussain
One local journalist alleges that he was “made a human shield” by Indian soldiers.
Northeast India Sealed off Amid Rising Coronavirus Pandemic
By StoriesAsia
Northeast India is taking precautions as the World Health Organization declares COVID-19 a global pandemic.
In Pakistan, Criticism Grows Dangerous as Dissent Is Stifled
By Associated Press
Critics of the state in Pakistan are finding themselves increasing crunched.
The Inauguration of 2 Presidents: Afghanistan’s Constitutional Crisis
By Zalmai Nishat
To solve the election stalemate and salvage peace talks with the Taliban, Afghanistan needs to rethink its all-powerful executive branch.
Afghans Set to Release 1,500 Taliban; US Wants Less Violence
By Associated Press
Ghani's decree on the release came as the U.S. State Department issued a statement saying that the level of violence is "unacceptable."
Pakistan’s Government and Military Are Crushing Dissent on Social Media
By Abdul Rehman
New social media regulations are just the latest tool used to criminalize dissenting online speech.
Holi Festival Subdued in India Over Coronavirus Concerns
By Associated Press
The Hindu festival coincides with widespread concern about the rapid spread of the coronavirus disease, or COVID-19.
India Evacuates Citizens, Others From China, Iran Amid COVID-19
By Ankit Panda
India has retrieved more than 800 of its citizens from overseas amid the COVID-19 outbreak.