2020 saw increased competition between India and China in the South Asia region. My new piece examines how things might play out this year.
Iran
No, China Is Not Driving India out of Iran
The investment and security deal currently being negotiated between Beijing and Tehran has provoked fears in the Indian media that China is trying to drive India out of Iran. But, in this essay for The National Interest, I argue that India’s Iranian investments are failing due to US sanctions, not Chinese expansionism.
What do US-Iran Talks Mean for Afghanistran?
The US and Iran have been holding quiet talks. That is good news for Afghanistan, I explain here.
Don’t Believe the Hype about China and Iran
China and Iran are reportedly negotiating a $400 billion investment and security agreement, but the deal is far less significant than media reports suggest, I write here.
COVID-19 in Afghanistan
My new essay for the Royal Society of Asian Affairs considers the impact of coronavirus on Afghanistan.
Will Iran Sabotage Afghan Peace Talks? Don’t Bet On It
It has been suggested that Iran might sabotage the Afghan peace process in retaliation for the Soleimani killing. But this is unlikely, I argue here.
How US-Iran Tensions Might Benefit China
My latest essay asks whether rising tensions in the Middle East following the US’ recent killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani could benefit China. The answer: yes, but not in the way you might think.
Interview with Ehud Olmert
I recently had the opportunity to interview former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert, who spoke on a variety of topics, including domestic Israeli politics, Iran, Syria and Israel’s relationship with Pakistan. Read the story here.
The Taliban Go Global
I have another piece out today, on the transformation of the Afghan Taliban from an isolated, parochial group into an increasingly global movement.
The Risk of a Saudi-Iran Proxy War in Afghanistan
My latest assesses the risk of a Saudi-Iran proxy war in Afghanistan.
Rupert Stone 