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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.
Another Eid, Another Ceasefire Attempt in Afghanistan
By Sahar Khan
The latest attempt at a ceasefire is a positive development for Afghanistan.
Behind Bangladesh's Protests: Rising Frustration
By Aparupa Bhattacherjee
Looking beyond the immediate trigger of the August protests, what has Bangladesh's society so frustrated?
What Might Lie Ahead for Afghanistan?
By Marvin G. Weinbaum and Samad Sadri
Looking beyond wishful thinking, here are four possible future scenarios for the course of the war in Afghanistan.
Imran Khan’s Foreign Policy Approach
By Daud Khattak
Khan has a golden chance to right ties with India, Afghanistan, and the U.S. – if the establishment will let him.
The Consequences of Shifting US-Pakistan Military Ties
By Umair Jamal
What Trump’s decision to ban Pakistan from military training programs means for the U.S. military.
Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Man Who Saw India's Entry Into the 21st Century, Dies
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
Vajpayee mainstreamed the BJP in Indian politics, ushered South Asia into the nuclear age, and charted a bold course for India.
Pakistan’s New Leader Faces a Bailout Conundrum
By Yigal Chazan
Does Imran Khan approach the IMF or China? Neither option augurs well.
Are Afghanistan-Iran Relations on the Mend?
By Samuel Ramani
Rouhani’s outreach to Ghani at the SCO summit this summer may herald an improvement in bilateral ties.
Making Sense of India’s Foreign Policy After 72 Years of Independence
By Harsh V. Pant
India today is a self-confident power, able to navigate global affairs with aplomb.
Misuse of Blasphemy Law Again on the Rise in Pakistan
By Tehreem Azeem
Pakistan's blasphemy law is easily abused but amendments to the controversial law are unlikely.
Taliban Talks in Uzbekistan, Violence Continues in Afghanistan
By Catherine Putz
With talks up north and violence in the southeast, the war in Afghanistan lurches toward its 17th year.
Nepal's #RageAgainstRape Movement Sparks Hope
By Arun Budhathoki
One group is fighting the incidence of rape in Nepal.