Politics

National Sangha Council Demands Resignation of Minister Lalkantha

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

Sri Lanka’s National Sangha Council has called for the immediate resignation of Minister Lalkantha following controversial statements made by the minister, which the council described as inappropriate and harmful to national harmony. The council emphasized that such remarks are unacceptable from a government official and have the potential to incite public unrest. The National Sangha...

US Still Weighs Military Strikes on Iran as Diplomacy Remains an Option, White House Says

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

The administration of US President Donald Trump has stated that military strikes against Iran remain under consideration, even as diplomacy continues to be emphasised as the preferred first choice in Washington’s response to the escalating crisis in Tehran. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that President Trump is exploring “many options” in response...

Iran Ready for War if Provoked by US, Warns Foreign Minister Araghchi

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that Tehran is fully prepared for war if the United States chooses to “test” Iran, escalating rhetoric amid rising regional and global tensions. Speaking amid growing uncertainty over US-Iran relations, Araghchi said Iran does not seek conflict but will respond decisively to any military provocation or aggressive action....

China–Taiwan Tensions Intensify Amid War of Words and Military Signalling

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Tensions between China and Taiwan have intensified following a series of sharp political exchanges and increased military activity around the self-governed island. Beijing reiterated its claim over Taiwan, warning against what it described as “separatist actions”, while Taipei accused China of escalating intimidation. Recent military drills near Taiwan have heightened concerns among regional observers, who...

India and Pakistan Signal Willingness to Resume Diplomatic Engagement

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

India and Pakistan have signalled tentative openness to resuming diplomatic engagement, raising cautious hopes for easing long-standing tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Officials on both sides have stopped short of announcing formal talks but have acknowledged the need for dialogue. Relations have remained strained for years, particularly over the disputed region of Kashmir. Analysts say...

Middle East Conflict Sends Shockwaves Through Asian Energy Markets

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Escalating conflict in the Middle East is sending shockwaves through Asian energy markets, with oil prices showing increased volatility. Asia, which relies heavily on energy imports from the region, is particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. Economists warn that sustained price increases could reignite inflationary pressures across energy-importing economies. Governments are monitoring developments closely, with some...

Governance Challenges Continue to Test Public Trust in South Asia

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Governance challenges across South Asia are increasingly testing public trust, with citizens demanding greater transparency, accountability and service delivery from political leaders. Corruption allegations, institutional weaknesses and slow reforms have fuelled public dissatisfaction in several countries. Political analysts say the gap between public expectations and government performance has widened, particularly amid economic pressures. While elections...

Sarah Jasmine ‘Not Dead’, Investigations Ongoing – Sri Lanka Minister Tells Parliament

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Sarah Jasmine ‘Not Dead’, Investigations Ongoing – Sri Lanka Minister Tells Parliament Colombo — Sri Lanka’s Minister of Public Security, Ananda Wijepala, has told Parliament that information revealed during ongoing investigations indicates that Pulasthini Mahendran, also known as Sarah Jasmine, who is linked to the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, is not dead. Addressing Parliament...

Sri Lanka Moves to Strengthen Flood Response Ahead of Northeast Monsoon

Asian TribuneDecember 27, 2025

Sri Lanka’s disaster management authorities have intensified preparedness measures as the northeast monsoon continues to affect several parts of the island, raising concerns over potential flooding and landslides. Officials stated that enhanced coordination is underway among district secretariats, emergency services, and security forces to ensure a rapid response if conditions worsen. The Disaster Management Centre...

Global Leaders Reaffirm Climate Commitments Ahead of New Year

Asian TribuneDecember 27, 2025

Global leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling climate change as the year draws to a close, emphasizing renewed focus on emissions reduction, renewable energy expansion, and climate adaptation strategies. Statements issued ahead of the new year highlighted the urgency of coordinated international action to address environmental challenges affecting economies and communities worldwide. Several governments...