Asia

Opening Strike: US–Israel Launch Joint Offensive on Iran

Asian TribuneMarch 2, 2026

The Middle East entered a dangerous new phase of conflict after the United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes targeting key military and strategic sites inside Iran. The operation, described by Washington as a “preemptive measure,” aimed to dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities and disrupt its alleged nuclear program. Explosions were reported across multiple cities, including...

Pakistan Launches Airstrikes in Afghanistan as Tensions Escalate Into ‘Open War’

Asian TribuneFebruary 28, 2026

Islamabad/Kabul – Pakistan and Afghanistan have entered their most intense military confrontation in years, with cross-border clashes escalating into what Pakistani officials described as “open war” against the Taliban-led government in Kabul. According to Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Islamabad launched airstrikes on more than 20 locations across Afghanistan. The strikes targeted...

US–Iran Talks End With Claims of Progress, But Major Gaps Remain

Asian TribuneFebruary 28, 2026

Tehran/Geneva – A fresh round of indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded in Geneva with both sides describing the discussions as “serious” and “constructive.” However, few concrete details were released, and significant differences remain unresolved, raising continued concerns over potential military escalation in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that...

Can Tarique Rahman Deliver Change After Bangladesh Election Victory?

Asian TribuneFebruary 19, 2026

Following a decisive election victory, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman now faces a crucial question — can he deliver meaningful change? The BNP’s return to power marks a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape, ending over 15 years of dominance by Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League. 🔄 Power shift or real change?...

‘Star of Pure Land’ enters global record as world’s largest purple star sapphire

Asian TribuneFebruary 15, 2026

Colombo, January 18, 2026 – A rare and enormous natural purple star sapphire called the “Star of Pure Land” has been formally entered into the global record books as the largest documented gemstone of its kind in the world. The gemstone weighs a remarkable 3,563 carats and displays a striking six-ray star pattern (asterism) —...

Agreement on Sinopec Hambantota oil refinery to be finalised in early 2026, says Foreign Minister

Asian TribuneFebruary 15, 2026

Colombo, January 13, 2026 – Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, has announced that the long-delayed agreement with China’s state-owned energy company Sinopec for the proposed oil refinery project in Hambantota is expected to be finalised in the first quarter of 2026. The statement was issued by the Ministry...

South Asia Seeks Greater Regional Economic Integration

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

South Asian nations are exploring renewed economic cooperation to boost trade and growth.Featured Image Prompt: South Asia regional meeting Efforts to strengthen regional economic integration have gained renewed attention in South Asia. Policymakers argue that closer cooperation could enhance trade flows, reduce costs, and improve resilience against external shocks. Despite shared interests, progress has historically...

Southeast Asia Balances Growth and Environmental Concerns

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

Rapid development in Southeast Asia has intensified debates over sustainability.Featured Image Prompt: Southeast Asia city and forest contrast Southeast Asian economies continue to experience strong growth, but environmental concerns are increasingly shaping policy discussions. Governments face pressure to balance industrial expansion with conservation efforts. Infrastructure projects and urbanisation have raised concerns about deforestation and resource...

Asia’s Political Landscape Reflects Shifting Alliances

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

Political realignments across Asia are influencing regional diplomacy.Featured Image Prompt: Asian leaders summit Asia’s political landscape is undergoing subtle shifts, with evolving alliances and strategic partnerships shaping regional diplomacy. Observers note increased engagement among middle powers seeking greater autonomy in foreign policy. Economic cooperation, security dialogues, and multilateral engagement have all played roles in redefining...

Ferry Sinks off Basilan in Southern Philippines; Dozens Dead and Hundreds Rescued

Asian TribuneJanuary 26, 2026

A passenger ferry carrying more than 350 people sank early Monday morning off the coast of Basilan province in the southern Philippines, leaving at least 15 people dead, dozens missing, and hundreds rescued as authorities continue search and rescue operations. (CNA) The vessel, M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, was en route from the port city of...