The Centre for Strategic and Regional Studies (CSRS)
Until recently, the chances of a direct war between Israel and Iran seemed low. Both countries were deterred by fear of one another, particularly because Iran, through its network of proxy groups known as the Axis of Resistance, was able to keep pressure on Israel.
In the Middle East, Israel has often acted as a proxy for U.S. interests, especially in military conflicts. The current war between Israel and Iran is no exception it reflects Washington’s broader strategic aims.
Although a direct war between Turkey and Israel is not yet a reality, rising political, military, and ideological tensions could push both countries closer to open conflict.
An analysis of the European Union’s relations with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan reveals a profound divide between the EU’s normative values and its geopolitical imperatives concerning Afghanistan.
The trilateral meetings between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China were initiated at a time when tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan had reached a peak, and armed conflict within Afghanistan was intensifying.
The recent incident in Pahalgam has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. As a result, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, while Pakistan has delayed the Shimla Agreement.
In May 2018, President Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) and called for renegotiation, urging the Islamic Republic of Iran to engage in a new agreement with Washington. Since then, Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran should it refuse to comply. In 2019, Trump fully prepared for a strike on Iran but ultimately refrained. At present, the threat of military action appears primarily aimed at instilling fear among Iranian officials to pressure them into negotiations on U.S. terms.
President Trump’s financial policies toward NATO, particularly his demands for European countries to contribute more to defense spending, may have strengthened NATO’s financial resources.
In summary, the closure of the Torkham Gate is not in the interest of either side. Although a recent tribal jirga (council) was held between the two parties, resulting in a ceasefire, no decision has been made yet to reopen the gate.
Although the interim government in Syria has only been in place for three months, it has made notable progress in both domestic and foreign affairs. Under the leadership of Ahmad Al-Shara, the government has taken significant steps to reduce Syria’s international isolation.
