What to Watch for as Israel Advances into Rafah?
The Israeli military has launched a new wave of air raids and artillery fire in southern Gaza, forcing Palestinians to flee overcrowded Rafah in advance of a feared ground invasion that world leaders have condemned. Mirjana Spoljaric, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), said the absence of a clear evacuation plan, including for the sick and elderly, would bring suffering to a new level. Source: AlJazeera
Pakistan Needs More Than Elections to Be a Democracy
Decades of political manipulation and rights abuses have hindered democracy in Pakistan. The expected PMLN’s return to power is accompanied by a crackdown on the PTI, resulting in numerous detentions, some on violence charges. Politicians and journalists face harassment and sedition charges under outdated laws. Pakistan’s history of military rule subverts democracy, and unless leaders change course and foster a culture of political tolerance for criticism and other fundamental freedoms, the current state of political instability, economic debacle, and worsening security will continue. Source: Patricia Gossman, Newsweek
Five Ways Imran Khan’s Party Used Technology to Outperform in Pakistan’s Elections
The party’s culture of bottom-up innovation, fueled by digital platforms, allowed for the dissemination of information at unprecedented scale. PTI strategically used artificial intelligence to engage with constituents, generating content in his own voice and keeping the base energized. The party’s use of technology and digital media strategy set a new benchmark for electoral campaigns worldwide. Source: Uzair Younus, Atlantic Council
Pakistan’s Middle-Class Rage Against Military Rule
The government’s effort to maintain the status quo through repression has resulted in a historic loss of legitimacy and trust in state institutions. The resulting institutional vacuum leaves middle-class grievances unaddressed, posing a grave threat to Pakistan’s stability. In the absence of institutional channels to resolve political disputes, conflicts are bound to be settled through violence. Source: Adeel Malik, Project-syndicate.org
Pakistan’s Fragmented Election Outcome
Pakistan’s recent elections have led to a fragmented coalition government with no clear majority and a rebuke of military intervention. The incoming government faces the task of addressing the financial crisis while dealing with a disruptive opposition. This political and economic instability could have far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s foreign relations, particularly with India. Source: Lt Gen (R) Deependra Singh Hooda, Delhi Policy Group
Pakistan: More Instability Coming Down the Road
Pakistan’s elections on 8 February were meant to bring stability after almost two years of turmoil, but the fraudulent nature of the polls has deepened political divisions and brought more instability to the nuclear-armed, 240-million-strong country. Source: Claude Rakisits, ASPI
Washington to Brief Senior Members of Congress on ‘National Security Threat’
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will brief Congress on a “serious national security threat” related to Russia’s alleged plan to deploy a space-based nuclear weapon on Feb. 15. This raises concerns about Moscow’s growing anti-satellite capabilities and potential “space mines” to neutralize US defense satellites. A nuclear detonation in space could affect many satellites, including Russia’s, but Moscow’s lesser space reliance may outweigh the risks. Source: Stratfor