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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.
Why Balochistan Needs Women’s Day
By Mariyam Suleman
Despite some little progress, women in Balochistan are still a very long way from equality.
Dueling Afghan Leaders Both Declare Themselves President
By Associated Press
Kabul’s political crisis continued to deepen with Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah both holding rival inaugurations.
Nepal Takes Steps to Prepare for COVID-19
By Brabim Karki
Anxieties about the COVID-19 epidemic in Asia are high in Nepal.
The Long War in Afghanistan Might Be Over. Who Won?
By Kambaiz Rafi
There might be no clear winner after all, but what exactly will that mean for Afghanistan and the region?
Afghan Officials: Gunmen Kill 32 at Largely Shiite Gathering in Kabul
By Associated Press
The attack, claimed by Islamic State, was a stark reminder that the U.S.-Taliban peace deal did not mean an end to violence.
India’s Quiet Responses Against Turkey’s Diplomatic Offensive
By Niranjan Marjani
Turkey’s vocal stance on Kashmir has not gone unnoticed in New Delhi.
India’s Beleaguered Health System Braces for Virus Surge
By Associated Press
Indian authorities are scrambling to ready a beleaguered and vastly unequal medical system for a potential surge of patients.
Critics of India’s Modi Government Face Sedition Charges
By Associated Press
Freedom of political expression remains under siege in Modi’s India.
What Has Pakistan Gained From the US-Taliban Peace Deal?
By Umair Jamal
Does Islamabad win from the conclusion of a deal between the United States and the Taliban?
The Rising Domestic Danger to India’s Foreign Policy Under Modi
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
Whether New Delhi likes it or not, it is becoming increasingly clear that domestic issues are affecting ties with its neighbors and partners and that the costs of this are increasing.
International Criminal Court Approves Afghanistan Investigation
By Associated Press
The investigation targets the Taliban, Afghan, and U.S. forces for war crimes.
US Strikes Taliban Forces Days After ‘Historic’ Deal
By Catherine Putz
The deal promises intra-Afghan talks to start March 10 and the release of Taliban prisoners; Kabul has rejected the latter and is scrambling to build a team for the former.