Across South Asia, devastating floods and landslides have claimed over 900 lives in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Thailand, with hundreds still missing. Heavy monsoon rains, intensified by a tropical storm, have caused widespread damage, displacing thousands and leaving many without essential supplies. In Sri Lanka, the death toll has risen sharply, while Indonesia struggles to reach the hardest-hit areas and Thailand addresses public criticism of its flood response. The climate crisis is thought to be a contributing factor, impacting storm patterns and leading to intensified rainfall, flash flooding and stronger wind gusts.
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India says it will never restore the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. This declaration signifies a significant shift in the long-standing agreement, one that has profound implications for both nations. The treaty, crucial to Pakistan’s agricultural sector and thus its very existence, is now jeopardized. Its termination would leave Pakistan acutely vulnerable, dependent on India’s goodwill for the water flow crucial to feeding its vast population.
India’s decision stems from a long history of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan. The argument is that providing a lifeline to a country that actively fosters and supports groups dedicated to India’s destruction is simply untenable.… Continue reading
The Pakistan army’s announcement of 51 military deaths in a conflict with India is a significant event, particularly considering Pakistan’s historical reluctance to acknowledge casualties. This openness, however unusual, presents a stark contrast to past practices. The official figure, however, is likely a considerable understatement of the true loss of life. Many believe the actual number of Pakistani military personnel killed is significantly higher, possibly double or even triple the reported figure. This skepticism stems from Pakistan’s past record of downplaying its military losses.
The issue of civilian casualties further complicates the matter. The comments suggest a significant number of civilian deaths, possibly exceeding military losses, with estimates ranging from 100 to 200.… Continue reading
A ceasefire between India and Pakistan, brokered by the US, ended days of escalating conflict that brought the two nuclear-armed nations to the brink of war. Both countries claimed victory, celebrating the cessation of hostilities despite continued accusations of initiating ceasefire violations. While the immediate crisis subsided, underlying tensions over Kashmir remain unresolved, leaving the future of peace in the region uncertain. The US played a significant diplomatic role, prompting nationalistic fervor and celebrations in both nations despite concerns from civilians fearing renewed conflict.
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Following cross-border attacks, a US-brokered ceasefire between India and Pakistan was announced. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi subsequently reiterated China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, praising Pakistan’s restrained approach. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Dar also spoke with UAE and Turkish counterparts, updating them on the situation. The ceasefire, welcomed by the UAE, followed heightened tensions and military actions by both nations.
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India has mobilized 14 Territorial Army (TA) infantry battalions, totaling roughly 10,500 personnel, for deployment nationwide until February 2028. This augmentation of forces, enabled by invoking Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rule 1948, supports the regular army in various roles, freeing up regular troops for heightened operational preparedness along the border with Pakistan. The mobilization also includes recalling disembodied TA personnel and curtailing leave for active-duty personnel. This action reflects escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
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Amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stark warning, threatening global consequences should Pakistan’s existence be threatened. Asif accused India of planning military strikes and involvement in terrorist plots, drawing parallels to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These comments follow previous incendiary remarks and warnings from Pakistani officials, escalating the already strained relationship between the two nations. India’s response to the attack included severing several ties with Pakistan and authorizing its military with complete operational freedom.
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Following India’s countermeasures against Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan Minister Hanif Abbasi issued a nuclear threat. Abbasi warned of full-scale war should India halt Pakistan’s water supply, emphasizing the country’s hidden nuclear arsenal’s readiness for retaliation. He also mocked India’s economic sanctions, highlighting the disruption caused by Pakistan’s airspace closure. These statements follow similar provocative claims by Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, who admitted to past support of terror groups while accusing India of staging the attack.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood