Articles by Bashir Ali Abbas
Eye on the Middle East | Drones and deterrence in the Israel-Hezbollah dynamic
Hezbollah's unprecedented drone footage over Israel's Haifa Port represents a strategic shift in the use of drones.
![An Israeli fighter jet releases flares, and a drone is seen from Rafah, Gaza Strip, on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kreem Hana)(AP) An Israeli fighter jet releases flares, and a drone is seen from Rafah, Gaza Strip, on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kreem Hana)(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/06/22/148x111/Israel-Palestinians-17_1719085906905_1719086028434.jpg)
Published on Jun 23, 2024 10:00 AM IST
Eye on the Middle East | The BRICS has cemented its position on Israel
For a grouping that resisted any addition of full members since South Africa in 2010, the new members can significantly influence the nature of summit outcomes
![BRICS member nations BRICS member nations](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/06/16/148x111/Brics-held-an-extraord_1718515606360_1718515606469.webp)
Published on Jun 16, 2024 11:08 AM IST
Eye on the Middle East | A Damocles’ sword hangs at the Israel-Lebanon border
As the threat of a wider regional war looms, key to understanding the Israel-Hezbollah conflict is the question of where the locus of the present conflict lies
![(FILES) An Israeli strike illuminates the sky above the southern Lebanese village of Khiam late on April 17, 2024, amid ongoing cross-border tensions as fighting continues between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.(Photo by Rabih DAHER / AFP)(AFP) (FILES) An Israeli strike illuminates the sky above the southern Lebanese village of Khiam late on April 17, 2024, amid ongoing cross-border tensions as fighting continues between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.(Photo by Rabih DAHER / AFP)(AFP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/06/08/148x111/FILES-LEBANON-ISRAEL-PALESTINIAN-CONFLICT-0_1717873565101_1717873611571.jpg)
Published on Jun 09, 2024 09:30 AM IST
Under the eyes of two courts, Israel pushes into Rafah as Washington wavers
In its May 24 order, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to “immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in Rafah”.
![Smoke rises from an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Friday, May 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)(AP) Smoke rises from an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Friday, May 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/06/01/148x111/Israel-Palestinians-2_1717273351196_1717273466392.jpg)
Published on Jun 02, 2024 01:56 AM IST
Why President Raisi's death rattles Iran’s leadership succession plan
Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi dies in a helicopter crash, marking a sudden end to his controversial presidency and potential succession as Supreme Leader.
![Hardliners in Iran have further consolidated power with the 2024 Parliamentary polls having thrown up a conservative majority. (AFP) Hardliners in Iran have further consolidated power with the 2024 Parliamentary polls having thrown up a conservative majority. (AFP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/05/20/148x111/Hardliners-in-Iran-have-further-consolidated-power_1716230771335_1716231122605.jpg)
Updated on May 21, 2024 07:11 AM IST
Ebrahim Raisi’s death ends a troubled presidency; rattles Iran’s succession plan
Besides the death of Raisi, foreign minister Hossein Abdollahian’s death takes out another skilled diplomat well-seasoned in engaging key neighbours
![People hold up posters of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi during a mourning ceremony for him at Vali-e-Asr square in downtown Tehran, Iran,(AP) People hold up posters of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi during a mourning ceremony for him at Vali-e-Asr square in downtown Tehran, Iran,(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/05/20/148x111/Iran-11_1716218624855_1716218685047.jpg)
Updated on May 20, 2024 11:30 PM IST
On Chabahar and US sanctions, a litmus test for New Delhi and Washington
Chabahar is arguably a litmus test for how well the US recognises India’s value in deterring China and in increasing Iran’s own stakes in regional stability
![Chabahar Port(HT File) Chabahar Port(HT File)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/05/16/148x111/chabahar-port-0_1672346216239_1715886285229.jpg)
Published on May 17, 2024 12:41 AM IST
Israel's increasingly unpopular war in Gaza is to Turkey’s delight
Presently, the global flow is against Israel, with a ceasefire as the biggest imperative (which is in fact what Turkey has made trade contingent on)
![Smoke from an Israeli military strike in the distance seen from al-Mawasi on the outskirts of Rafah, Gaza, on Thursday, May 9, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister�Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel must go into Rafah to finish off the remaining battalions of Hamas, the US-designated terrorist group that killed 1,200 Israelis and kidnapped about 250 last Oct. 7. Photographer: Ahmad Salem/Bloomberg(Bloomberg) Smoke from an Israeli military strike in the distance seen from al-Mawasi on the outskirts of Rafah, Gaza, on Thursday, May 9, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister�Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel must go into Rafah to finish off the remaining battalions of Hamas, the US-designated terrorist group that killed 1,200 Israelis and kidnapped about 250 last Oct. 7. Photographer: Ahmad Salem/Bloomberg(Bloomberg)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/05/10/148x111/GAZA-PALESTINIANS-58_1715368348607_1715368407887.jpg)
Published on May 11, 2024 12:58 AM IST
Blinken’s 7th Middle East tour, and the Rafah litmus test
While the US continues to support Egypt and Qatar, it is also focused on a greater role for Saudi Arabia to ensure regional stability and reconstruction in Gaza
![U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with the families of the hostages, kidnapped in the deadly October 7, 2024 attack on Israel by the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein/Pool Photo via AP)(AP) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with the families of the hostages, kidnapped in the deadly October 7, 2024 attack on Israel by the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein/Pool Photo via AP)(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/05/02/148x111/Israel-US-Blinken-5_1714675726534_1714675937196.jpg)
Published on May 03, 2024 12:29 AM IST
In Chabahar, the city of four springs, India is stuck in a long winter
The Chabahar port’s development has been impacted by geopolitical tensions. Despite challenges, India remains committed to leveraging Chabahar for connectivity
![India’s enduring interest in Chabahar port has multiple drivers, including both positive (enablers) and negative (disablers). India’s enduring interest in Chabahar port has multiple drivers, including both positive (enablers) and negative (disablers).](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/04/25/148x111/chabahar-port-0_1672346216239_1714066618809.jpg)
Published on Apr 25, 2024 11:43 PM IST
The game of deterrence between Iran and Israel has changed
Iran's attack on Israel on April 13, crossed Tel Aviv's red line. Until it reciprocates (if it does), it is Israel that is caught in a commitment trap
![An anti-missile system operates after Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel, as seen from Ashkelon, Israel. (REUTERS FILE) An anti-missile system operates after Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel, as seen from Ashkelon, Israel. (REUTERS FILE)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/04/18/148x111/An-anti-missile-system-operates-after-Iran-launche_1713203489526_1713448136186.jpg)
Published on Apr 18, 2024 08:10 PM IST
Amidst the Iran-Israel escalation loop, India is not spoilt for choice
While the crew of captured ships have traditionally been released unharmed, the current crisis presents a new frontier for Indian foreign policy
Published on Apr 15, 2024 03:48 PM IST
Saudi-Pakistan joint statement on Kashmir shows Riyadh’s balancing act
The recent joint statement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, calling for dialogue to resolve the Kashmir dispute, marks a subtle shift in Riyadh's stance.
Published on Apr 11, 2024 11:25 PM IST
Eye on the Middle East | Why did Israel attack the Iranian Consulate in Syria?
The longer and wider Israel’s war, the less sympathy it gets internationally, and the lesser the chances of Arab-Israeli normalisation coming back on track
Updated on Apr 04, 2024 10:17 PM IST
With the end of Ramzan nearing, has the UNSC’s call for a ceasefire helped?
As the death toll in Gaza approaches 33,000, the March 25 resolution has so far failed to create binding obligations on Israel to halt its military campaign
Published on Apr 03, 2024 06:13 PM IST
Eye on the Middle East | The Islamic State Khorasan province is coming of age
While the motivations of the IS behind the deadly bombing of Crocus City Hall in Moscow are still unclear, its historic focus on Russia is illuminating
![A view shows the burning Crocus City Hall concert hall following the shooting incident in Krasnogorsk, outside Moscow, on March 22, 2024.(AFP) A view shows the burning Crocus City Hall concert hall following the shooting incident in Krasnogorsk, outside Moscow, on March 22, 2024.(AFP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/26/148x111/Russia_1711178409359_1711460937658.jpg)
Published on Mar 26, 2024 07:26 PM IST
The Indian Navy’s anti-piracy operations are geopolitically vital
The northern Indian Ocean has witnessed a burst of activity recently. However, the Navy’s increasing presence in NIO is driven by more than just anti-piracy.
![New Delhi, Mar 21 (ANI): Indian Navy's INS Tir and INS Sujata participate in the second edition of a joint maritime exercise India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) Tri-Lateral (TRILAT) being held from March 21-29. (ANI Photo)(Indian Navy) New Delhi, Mar 21 (ANI): Indian Navy's INS Tir and INS Sujata participate in the second edition of a joint maritime exercise India Mozambique Tanzania (IMT) Tri-Lateral (TRILAT) being held from March 21-29. (ANI Photo)(Indian Navy)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/22/148x111/ANI-20240321210-0_1711104197348_1711104218885.jpg)
Published on Mar 22, 2024 04:16 PM IST
Analysis of India's voting patterns on Israel-Palestine issues at the UN
While the India-Israel relationship has gone from strength to strength, India’s support of UN resolutions critical of Israel has remained largely unchanged
![US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield listens as Algerian Ambassador to the UN Amar Bendjama speaks during a UN Security Council meeting on the Israel-Hamas war, at UN Headquarters in New York City on February 20, 2024 (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP)(AFP) US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield listens as Algerian Ambassador to the UN Amar Bendjama speaks during a UN Security Council meeting on the Israel-Hamas war, at UN Headquarters in New York City on February 20, 2024 (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP)(AFP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/20/148x111/UN-ISRAEL-PALESTINIAN-CONFLICT-7_1710959539739_1710959606553.jpg)
Published on Mar 21, 2024 12:06 AM IST
How the Tehran-Riyadh rapprochement holds out, a year on
March 10 marked one year since Iran and Saudi Arabia entered into a Beijing-brokered reconciliation. Now the Gaza war presents new opportunities and challenges
![Wang Yi (centre), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, Ali Shamkhani (right), the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Minister of State and national security adviser of Saudi Arabia Musaad bin Mohammed Al Aiban pose for pictures during a meeting in Beijing, China. (REUTERS) Wang Yi (centre), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, Ali Shamkhani (right), the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Minister of State and national security adviser of Saudi Arabia Musaad bin Mohammed Al Aiban pose for pictures during a meeting in Beijing, China. (REUTERS)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/15/148x111/Wang-Yi--centre---a-member-of-the-Political-Bureau_1680001963434_1710504117652.jpg)
Published on Mar 15, 2024 05:36 PM IST
What a history of hostage swaps can tell us about a potential deal in Gaza
During a peak in conflict, a deal allows both sides to meet their politico-military objectives. So what’s different this time around?
Updated on Mar 06, 2024 07:17 PM IST
Eye on the Middle East | The case 52 states made against Israel before the ICJ
The court recently offered provisional measures over Israel’s violations of the Genocide Convention. Now it'll adjudicate on legal impact of Israel's polices
![Public hearings were held between February 19 and 26 at the International Court of Justice on the Public hearings were held between February 19 and 26 at the International Court of Justice on the](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/03/03/148x111/20240219-186-01_1709474173544_1709474215529.jpg)
Published on Mar 03, 2024 07:45 PM IST
Between the Gulf and the Sea, a changing geopolitical scenario
The Red Sea is the eye of the storm today, with its winds changing West Asian international relations for actors both within and outside the region
![An Israeli Navy missile boat is seen off the coast of Eilat, October 31, 2023. (Israel Defense Forces) An Israeli Navy missile boat is seen off the coast of Eilat, October 31, 2023. (Israel Defense Forces)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/02/20/148x111/SoI_War_1708435630716_1708435637324.jpg)
Updated on Feb 20, 2024 08:44 PM IST
The United States has subtly shifted its stand towards the Israel-Gaza war
From outright support to characterising Israel's offensive on the Palestinians as "over the top", the US needs to protect its interests in West Asia's crises
![Neighbors inspect the rubble of the Hasouna family house, which was struck by an Israeli airstrike during an operation to rescue two hostages in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. Ibrahim Hasouna, who was away at the time of the airstrike, says his entire family was killed, including his parents, two brothers, his sister-in-law and three nieces and nephews. AP/PTI(AP02_14_2024_000001B)(AP) Neighbors inspect the rubble of the Hasouna family house, which was struck by an Israeli airstrike during an operation to rescue two hostages in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. Ibrahim Hasouna, who was away at the time of the airstrike, says his entire family was killed, including his parents, two brothers, his sister-in-law and three nieces and nephews. AP/PTI(AP02_14_2024_000001B)(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/02/14/148x111/AP02-14-2024-000001B-0_1707906260479_1707906667063.jpg)
Published on Feb 14, 2024 05:27 PM IST
Will these mediators help bring about a ceasefire in Gaza?
Egypt and Qatar can not only help negotiate a peace deal between Israel and Gaza, but also bring long-term stability to the West Asia region
![Smoke billows over the southern Lebanese border village of El-Khiam during Israeli bombardment on February 7, 2024, amid cross-border tensions with Lebanon, as fighting continues between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. (Photo by Rabih DAHER / AFP)(AFP) Smoke billows over the southern Lebanese border village of El-Khiam during Israeli bombardment on February 7, 2024, amid cross-border tensions with Lebanon, as fighting continues between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. (Photo by Rabih DAHER / AFP)(AFP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/02/07/148x111/LEBANON-ISRAEL-PALESTINIAN-CONFLICT-12_1707318597514_1707318719966.jpg)
Updated on Feb 07, 2024 09:00 PM IST
Eye on the Middle East | Killing of US forces in Jordan & Washington’s response
The destabilisation of the US-Iraq relationship is the latest strategic butterfly effect of the Gaza war; its spillover effects have now hit Jordan
![A satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC of military base Tower 22, located in northeastern Jordan. On January 28, three personnel of the United States Army were killed in a drone strike(AP) A satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC of military base Tower 22, located in northeastern Jordan. On January 28, three personnel of the United States Army were killed in a drone strike(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/02/04/148x111/United-States-Mideast-0_1706500753953_1707045261214.jpg)
Updated on Feb 04, 2024 04:50 PM IST
Eye on the Middle East | ICJ interim order is a signal for peace in the region
A political solution to the Israel-Palestine question shall act as a cushion to absorb any International Court of Justice's verdict on genocide in the future
Published on Jan 28, 2024 01:18 PM IST
Eye on the Middle East | Why did Iran open a fresh front with Pakistan?
Two Islamic Republics strike each other purportedly to wipe out separatist militant groups. This fresh hostility is undergirded by a history of suspicion
Published on Jan 19, 2024 09:17 PM IST
Sectarian flames in West Asia’s furnace: Why did the Islamic State attack Iran?
The IS attack in Iran is the result of a long-standing ideological war, which gets lost in the fog of political crises in the Middle East
![People pray over the flag-draped coffins of victims of Wednesday's bomb explosion during their funeral ceremony in the city of Kerman about 510 miles (820 kms) southeast of the capital Tehran, Iran, Friday, Jan. 5, 2024. Iran on Friday mourned those slain in an Islamic State group-claimed suicide bombing targeting a commemoration for a general slain in a U.S. drone strike in 2020. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)(AP) People pray over the flag-draped coffins of victims of Wednesday's bomb explosion during their funeral ceremony in the city of Kerman about 510 miles (820 kms) southeast of the capital Tehran, Iran, Friday, Jan. 5, 2024. Iran on Friday mourned those slain in an Islamic State group-claimed suicide bombing targeting a commemoration for a general slain in a U.S. drone strike in 2020. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)(AP)](https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/01/09/148x111/Iran-Explosions-12_1704812915439_1704813048300.jpg)
Updated on Jan 09, 2024 09:27 PM IST
Are the Houthis taking the Israel-Palestine conflict into new waters?
A militia involved in Yemen’s civil war attacked vessels in the Red Sea. What’s curious is how the Middle East is responding this time around. Here’s why
Published on Jan 05, 2024 08:30 AM IST
Death of a Messenger: What Saleh al-Arouri’s death means for Hamas
A 1991 Hebron University Hamas recruit, Arouri handled a range of tasks for Hamas - recruitments, donations and funds, as well as weapons procurement.
Published on Jan 04, 2024 10:14 PM IST