International Relations

India-France Army Exercise: Shakti 2025

Context: The eighth edition of the India-France Army exercise, ‘Shakti 2025’, that started in June has concluded in France. 

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Shakti 2025. 

India-France Army Exercise: Shakti 2025

  • Exercise SHAKTI is a biennial Joint Military Exercise between the Indian and French Armies. 
  • Aim: To enhance interoperability, operational coordination, and mutual understanding.
  • The 2025 edition focuses on joint operations in a sub-conventional environment under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, with training conducted in semi-urban terrain.
  • Specialist detachments from both sides engaged in Electronic Warfare (EW) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) training, incorporating signal interception, jamming, spectrum control, and drone-neutralisation exercises.

Exercise Shakti boosts joint operational preparedness and reaffirms the shared commitment towards peace, stability, and global security. 

India-France Military Exercises: 

Exercise Varuna: 

  • Annual bilateral Naval exercise between India and France. It was first started in 1983, and named Varuna later.
  • The joint-exercise is held either in the Indian Ocean or Mediterranean Sea.
  • Aim: To improve Indo-French coordination on capabilities like cross-deck operations, replenishment-at-sea, minesweeping, anti-submarine warfare and information sharing. 
  • It showcases the two nations' commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.

Exercise FRINJEX: 

  • The maiden Joint Military Exercise FRINJEX-23 between Indian Army and French Army was held in 2023.
  • Aim: To enhance inter-operability, coordination and cooperation between both forces at tactical level. 
  • The scope of the exercise involves establishment and operationalisation of a joint command post to secure an envisaged area for undertaking joint humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, establishing an Internally Displaced Population (IDP) camp and move of disaster relief material.

Exercise Tarang Shakti: 

  • It is a biennial multinational air combat exercise hosted by Indian Air Force. 
  • Aim: To showcase India's military capabilities and strengthen international cooperation among the participating nations. 
  • Tarang Shakti 2024 was the first edition of the exercise and the largest international air exercise hosted by India. France was one among the 11 countries that participated with military assets.  

The exercises cement defence cooperation with France which is a key aspect of the overall Indo-France Strategic Partnership.

Also Read: India – France: Strategic partners 

Congo and Rwanda sign a US-mediated Peace Deal

Context: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed a peace deal facilitated by the U.S. to help end the decades-long deadly conflict in eastern Congo. The agreement helps the U.S. government and American companies gain access to critical minerals in the region.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: About Rwanda-DRC Conflict and Peace Deal.

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Background of the Conflict

  • Rwanda has two major ethnic groups: Hutu (majority) and Tutsi (minority, traditionally elite class). 
  • Under Belgian colonial rule, the Tutsis were favored, creating deep resentment among Hutus. This set the stage for ethnic strife, culminating in the 1994 genocide.

1994 Genocide

  • In 1994, after the assassination of Rwandan President Juvenal Habyarimana (a Hutu), radical Hutu militias launched a mass slaughter. Over 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed in 100 days.
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Spillover into the DRC

  • Following the genocide, Hutu perpetrators and civilians fled to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Among them were members of the Interahamwe, a brutal paramilitary force responsible for much of the genocide.
  • These elements later reorganised into an armed group known as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). Based in eastern DRC, the FDLR has continued to carry out cross-border attacks against Rwanda, seeking to destabilise the Tutsi-led government in Rwanda.
  • Rwanda considers the FDLR a serious national security threat. It has conducted multiple cross-border military operations inside Congolese territory, often justifying them as pre-emptive self-defence.
  • Rwanda is frequently accused of violating Congolese sovereignty and of arming proxy rebel groups like M23 to counter the FDLR and maintain influence over eastern DRC, especially due to its mineral wealth.
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Key Provisions of the Rwanda-DRC Peace Agreement: 

  • Signed in Washington D.C. under the mediation of the United States.
  • The peace deal aims to restore stability in eastern DRC and prevent further cross-border conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Both Rwanda and the DRC agreed to immediately cease all hostilities and armed operations against each other.
  • Both sides pledged to withdraw any direct or indirect support to armed militias operating in eastern DRC, including M23 and FDLR.
  • The deal emphasises the use of diplomatic dialogue and regional cooperation to resolve future disputes. The agreement reaffirmed respect for national borders, stressing the importance of non-intervention in internal affairs.

Why did the US mediate the Rwanda-DRC Peace Deal?

  • Eastern DRC is rich in minerals like cobalt, coltan, lithium, and rare earth elements essential for Electric vehicles (EVs), Semiconductors, and Renewable energy technologies.
  • Peace in eastern DRC opens the door for the US companies to invest in mining and infrastructure.
  • By stabilising the region, the US creates an opportunity to reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates global supply chains for these minerals.

The mediation reflects the US’s intent to project soft power and reclaim its image as a global peace broker.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

Context: At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting in Qingdao (China), India declined to sign a joint statement over diluted language on terrorism, as it did not mention the Pahalgam attack but included militant activities in Balochistan. 

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts about Shanghai Cooperation Organisation; Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure.

Mains: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation- Significance & Challenges. 

About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

  • SCO is a prominent intergovernmental organisation that focuses on political, economic, and security-related cooperation among its member states. 
  • Founded: SCO was officially established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai, China.
    • Predecessor: It evolved from the "Shanghai Five" group, which was formed in 1996 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan to address border security issues.
    • Expansion: Uzbekistan joined the group in 2001, leading to the formation of the SCO. India and Pakistan became full members in 2017, expanding the organisation's reach in South Asia. 
  • Membership:
    • 10 Full Members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus. 
    • Observer States: Afghanistan, Mongolia are observer states.
    • Dialogue Partners: SCO also has several dialogue partners, including Turkey, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Azerbaijan, Armenia.
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Objectives: 

  • Security Cooperation: SCO primarily focuses on addressing regional security issues, combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
  • Economic Cooperation: It promotes economic cooperation, including trade, investment, energy partnerships, and infrastructure development.
  • Cultural Exchange: The SCO fosters cultural and humanitarian exchanges among member states to promote mutual understanding and trust.

Structure of SCO:  

  • Council of Heads of State: The highest decision-making body in the SCO, which meets annually to discuss and set the organisation's agenda.
  • Council of Heads of Government: Focuses on economic and trade cooperation and also meets annually.
  • Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): Headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, RATS coordinates efforts to combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism. 

Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS):

  • RATS is a specialised permanent organ of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that focuses on combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism within the member states. 
  • Established: RATS was established in 2004 as part of the SCO's broader efforts to address security challenges in the region.
  • Mandate and Objectives:
    • Counter-Terrorism: The primary mandate of RATS is to coordinate efforts among SCO member states to combat terrorism, which includes sharing intelligence, conducting joint operations, and enhancing legal frameworks.
    • Counter-Separatism: RATS also focuses on preventing and combating separatist movements that threaten the territorial integrity of member states.
  • Counter-Extremism: The organisation works to curb the spread of extremist ideologies that could lead to violence or destabilisation in the region.

Significance for India

SCO plays a significant role in the Eurasian region, with member states controlling a vast area, rich in natural resources, and a large population. India’s security, geopolitical, strategic and economic interests are closely intertwined with developments in the Central Asian region. 

  • Energy Security: Central Asian region is richly endowed with energy resources which India is trying to gain access to through Chabahar port construction in Iran and construction of International North-South Transport Corridor.
  • Economic Growth: SCO has high economic potential because 40% of the world's population lives in its countries, and they produce more than 22% of global GDP, that is by 2025, expected to reach 38-40%. 
  • Platform for Dialogue: SCO provides a platform for its members to engage in dialogue on regional and global issues, contributing to peace and stability in the region. 
  • Security Cooperation: RATS is viewed by India as a platform to access intelligence and information and as a solution to regional security cooperation as SCO remains committed to countering international terrorism, drug trafficking and resolving conflict in Afghanistan.
  • Gateway to Eurasia: India’s membership in the SCO is an opportunity for India to engage the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) , thereby Eurasian market. 
  • Connect to Central Asia: SCO is a potential platform to advance India’s Connect Central Asia policy.
  • Balancing Power: SCO is seen as a counterbalance to Western alliances, particularly NATO, and has strengthened ties between China and Russia. SCO membership also bolsters India’s status as a major Pan-Asian player, which is boxed in the South Asian paradigm. 
  • Value alignment: “Shanghai spirit” emphasises harmony, non-interference in others’ internal affairs, and non-alignment - values that India has always cherished and upheld.
  • Forum for bilateral cooperation with China: It is yet another opening, like the BRICS summit last year, to bring down tensions, and ahead of the next informal summit in October in India.
  • Platform for India to engage Pakistan: In the absence of the SAARC summit, the SCO summit gives an opportunity for Indian and Pakistani leaders to meet informally, on the sidelines and to engage in anti- terrorism cooperation. Thus, SCO shall provide a platform to resolve their differences.

Challenges for India in SCO: 

  • Dominance of China and Russia: Russia and China as a co-founder of the SCO are the dominant powers in the groupings, thus limiting India’s ability to assert itself.
  • China’s Belt and Road Initiative: All group members except India have endorsed China’s BRI initiative. India on the other hand has repeatedly opposed China’s Belt and Road Initiative citing sovereignty issues arising out of CPEC.
  • India-Pakistan rivalry: India and Pakistan are in continuous confrontation that makes it difficult to adhere to the idea of “good-neighbourliness” prescribed in Article 1 of the SCO charter.
  • Definition of Terrorism: India’s definition of terrorism is different from the definition of SCO under RATS. For SCO, terrorism coincides with regime destabilization, whereas for India it is related to state- sponsored cross border terrorism.

SCO is part of India’s stated policy of pursuing “multi-alignments.” Hence, India must continue to look for positive engagement with the member nations of this organisation.

Significance of Iran for India

Context: India’s stakes in its relationship with Iran go far beyond crude oil. The recent conflict between Israel and Iran, leaves India in a difficult spot in balancing its policy with Iran and Israel.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: About Chabahar port, INSTC, Tehran Declaration, New Delhi Declaration

Mains: Significance of Iran for India.

Iran has been a long-standing diplomatic and economic partner to India. 

India’s relations with Iran

  • India and Iran share ancient civilisational ties- common cultural, linguistic, and ethnic roots.
  • India signed a Friendship Treaty with Iran in 1950, committing to perpetual peace and friendship.
  • Two landmark agreements:
    • Tehran Declaration (2001): Aimed at boosting cooperation in energy, trade, and security.
    • New Delhi Declaration (2003): Covered various areas of bilateral cooperation, including economic collaboration, hydrocarbons, science and technology, education, reconstruction of Afghanistan and combating international terrorism.

Iran is important to India for multiple reasons, including its geographical location and rich energy resources. 

Significance of Iran to India: 

  • Strategic Location in West Asia: Iran lies at the crossroads of West Asia, Central Asia, and South Asia. It is located near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical choke point through which about 20% of global oil passes.
  • Gateway to Central Asia and Afghanistan: Iran offers an alternative land and sea route to access Afghanistan (bypassing Pakistan) and Central Asian Republics like Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, etc.
  • Infrastructure Projects: India and Iran signed an MoU in 2015 to develop the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Chabahar Port. Chabahar port project being jointly developed in Iran is of crucial importance to India, as:
    • It would provide connectivity to Afghanistan and the resource-rich Central Asian countries, bypassing Pakistan.
    • Chabahar is a key link in the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC), connecting India with Iran, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe, reducing transit time and cost while boosting trade with Eurasia.
    • It would counter China’s growing influence in the region, particularly its Belt and Road Initiative. 
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Important Oil Supplier to India

  • Before Western sanctions over its alleged nuclear program, Iran was one of India’s top three oil suppliers for many years. Critical infrastructure, such as the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd, was built with the capability to process Iranian crude oil.
  • Iran was a preferred supplier for India as it used to extend favourable terms, including discounted prices and extended credit periods. Oil supplies continued irrespective of the UN sanctions against Iran.
  • Note: In 2018, when the US reimposed its sanctions after getting out of the nuclear deal, India used the rupee payment mechanism to partly pay for the oil in Indian rupee, to get past the US sanctions. 

Important Export Destination:  

  • Iran was an important export destination for certain items from India including semi/wholly milled rice, black tea, fertilisers, organic/inorganic/agro chemicals, pharmaceuticals, yarns and fabric.
  • Exports to Iran were as much as $5.3 billion in 2013. However, the fall was sudden and sharp since 2019, after India stopped buying oil from the country, with exports in FY25 at $1.24 billion. 

Exporters hope for a return to normal relationship with Iran, as the country holds a lot of potential for growth.

Review of the India-ASEAN AITIGA

Context: In a bid to increase Indian exporters’ utilisation of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, which is way below 50%, the government is collecting inputs from the industry to understand the possible reasons behind the underutilisation or non-utilisation and rectification of the issues.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: About India-ASEAN FTA.

Mains: Reasons behind the underutilisation or non-utilisation of INDIA-ASEAN FTA.  

India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement

  • Formally known as the ASEAN-India Trade In Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
  • Signed in: 2009, Bangkok. Implemented in 2010.
  • Aim: To promote free flow of goods, enhance economic integration, and strengthen bilateral ties through: elimination or reduction of tariffs, improved market access, deeper economic cooperation. 
  • Members: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia. 

Key Features of AITIGA: 

  • Coverage: Only trade in goods (services & investment covered in later agreements)
  • Tariff Reduction: Phased reduction/elimination on over 80% of tariff lines.
  • Sensitive List: Countries can maintain “sensitive” and “exclusion” lists for protection.
  • Rules of Origin (RoO): Minimum 35% value addition & change in tariff subheading is required. 
  • Safeguard Mechanism: Allows re-imposition of tariffs temporarily to protect domestic industry.
  • Dispute Settlement through consultation and mutual resolution mechanisms.

Evaluation of AITIGA: 

  • It has resulted in a steady widening of the trade deficit between India and the 10-member bloc. 
  • India’s exports to the ASEAN bloc declined 5.7% to $38.96 billion in FY25. While imports increased 5.6% to $84.16 billion, increasing the trade deficit to $45.2 billion in FY25 from about $8 billion in 2010.
  • More than half the exports taking place from India to the ASEAN countries are happening outside the free trade framework with exporters paying regular import duties (MFN rates) and not the preferential or zero-duties agreed under the pact.

Key Challenges in Utilisation of AITIGA:

  • Underutilisation of Duty Benefits: Less than 50% of Indian exporters use the FTA benefits.
  • Lack of Awareness: Many small exporters are unaware of procedures or benefits under AITIGA.
  • Complex Rules of Origin (RoO): Difficulty in understanding and meeting origin criteria for COO certification.
  • Procedural Delays: Delays in obtaining Certificate of Origin (COO). 
  • Conflicting interpretations of rules between Indian and ASEAN authorities.
  • Difficulties in customs clearance process and inconsistent guidance from logistics providers, agents, or consultants

Government Reviewing AITIGA:

  • Exporters were asked about their awareness of COO procedures and challenges in interpreting Rules of Origin.
  • Inputs sought on difficulties in tracing origin of raw materials and delays in obtaining COOs.
  • Concerns regarding documentation costs, agency fees, customs clearance issues, and inconsistent guidance from intermediaries were also invited.

Strategic Significance of ASEAN for India

  • Central to India’s Act East Policy. ASEAN is India’s 4th largest trading partner. 
  • Key to countering China in the Indo-Pacific region. 
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Why is the Strait of Hormuz critical for India?

Context: In response to the recent US military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, Iran’s Parliament has approved the closure of Strait of Hormuz. However, the final decision will be taken by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Strait of Hormuz. Mains: Importance of Strait of Hormuz.  

The ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran hold serious consequences for global energy markets, especially for countries like India, which rely heavily on oil and gas imports as Iran has reportedly threatened that it could consider closing the strait of Hormuz. 

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About Strait of Hormuz

  • Strait of Hormuz is a critical narrow waterway between Iran and Oman. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
  • It provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. Around 20% of the global oil and gas supply- including shipments from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran- transit this narrow channel daily.
    • If it is closed by Iran, oil prices could jump to over $120, or even $150 per barrel from $74 per barrel.
  • At just 33 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, with shipping lanes only 3 kilometers wide in each direction, the strait is particularly vulnerable to disruption. 

Has the Strait ever been closed?

Despite past threats, Iran has never closed the Strait of Hormuz- even during major conflict- due to its global energy importance and the risk of strong retaliation from regional powers and the US. Iran might refrain from choking the Strait of Hormuz as: 

  • Rupture Iran's relationship with Oman (which owns the southern half of the strait) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC States).
  • Heavily impact China, Iran’s largest trading partner. China is the number one importer of oil, accounting for nearly three-quarters of Iran’s oil export. 
  • Impact Iran: Closure of its oil exporting terminal and associated economic hit would fuel popular discontent, which might impact both regime stability, and reformist tendencies for Iranian President.

Importance of the Strait of Hormuz for India: 

The Strait of Hormuz is vital for India due to its energy dependence in the region with most of this energy coming via the Strait of Hormuz.

  • Strategic Energy Chokepoint: India’s oil supply is heavily reliant on the region, with around 40% of its crude oil imports and 54% of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports travelling through the Strait of Hormuz. Any threat or blockade increases freight and insurance costs (risk premium), raising the landed price of oil and gas in India.
  • Global Price Surge Impact: Even without direct supply cuts, tensions cause global oil price spikes, which hurt India due to its heavy dependence on energy imports. This can affect India’s trade deficit, foreign exchange reserves, rupee stability, and inflation levels.
  • Indirect Impact via China: Even if India does not import Iranian oil (due to US sanctions), any disruption in Iran’s supply to China will push Chinese demand to India’s suppliers, tightening global supply and raising prices.

Conclusion: The Strait of Hormuz is a lifeline for India’s energy security. While immediate disruption is unlikely, continued tension in the region poses serious economic risks.

India-Croatia to strengthen bilateral ties

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister of India visited Croatia. He held official talks with the Croatian Prime Minister to enhance bilateral relations across defence, space, infrastructure, and digital sectors.

Relevance of the Topic:  Prelims: Recent developments in India-Croatia bilateral ties; Location of Croatia. 

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Key Highlights of the Visit

  • Defence Cooperation: India and Croatia will make long-term plans for deepening the defence partnership, focusing on defence production alongside training and military exchange.
  • Joint Ventures in Space: India and Croatia to jointly work on space technology and projects, reflecting India's growing soft power in tech diplomacy.
  • Economic Cooperation:
    • India seeks to enhance investment into Croatia’s critical industries like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, IT, clean technology, digital technology, and semiconductors.
    • Under the Sagarmala Project, the Indian PM invited Croatian companies to participate in port modernisation, coastal zone development, multimodal connectivity, and shipbuilding initiatives in India.
  • Connectivity: Croatia can serve as India’s gateway into Central and Southeastern Europe. Though not a formal stakeholder in IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) yet, Croatia would complement the corridor’s European leg through regional logistics and port connectivity. 

India has historical ties with the Adriatic region, further strengthened by people-to-people connections.

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Location of Croatia

  • Croatia is situated in Central and Southeast Europe, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. 
  • It borders Slovenia (northwest), Hungary (northeast), Serbia (east), Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro (southeast), and shares a maritime border with Italy to the west.
  • Capital and largest city: Zagreb

What happens if Iran Withdraws from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty?

Context: Amid the heightened military tensions between Iran and Israel, Iran's Parliament is preparing a Bill to potentially leave the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

Relevance of the Topic : Prelims: Key facts about Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Mains: Crisis in West Asia- Key Developments.  

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

  • NPT is a multilateral treaty, signed in 1968, aimed at limiting the spread of nuclear weapons including three elements:
    • Non-proliferation
    • Disarmament
    • Peaceful use of Nuclear Energy. 
  • It defines nuclear weapon states (NWS) as those that had manufactured and detonated a nuclear explosive device prior to 1 January 1967. Five NSW are China, France, Russia, the UK and the US. All the other states are non-nuclear weapon states (NNWS). 
  • The Treaty does not affect the right of state parties to develop, produce, and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. 
  • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) verifies NNWS compliance with commitments under the NPT not to acquire nuclear weapons.
  • India, Israel, and Pakistan possess nuclear weapons but have never accepted the NPT. India considers NPT as flawed and as it does not recognise the need for universal, non-discriminatory verification and treatment. 

Iran is a signatory to NPT, and is obligated to allow IAEA inspections and limit enrichment. Recently, the IAEA’s Board of Governors has censured Iran for breaching its non-proliferation obligations.

According to the IAEA, Iran has 400 kg of uranium that is already enriched to 60%, just a few steps away from further enrichment to weapons-grade level of 90% or more. The total stockpile of uranium and other nuclear material would be much more.

Can Iran leave the NPT?

The United States has attacked three key nuclear installations in Iran- Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz. This marked the entry of the US into the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. Iran has the legal right to withdraw from the NPT owing to the US strikes.

  • Article 10 of NPT: Each Party shall in exercising its national sovereignty have the right to withdraw from the Treaty if it decides that extraordinary events, related to the subject matter of this Treaty, have jeopardised the supreme interests of its country.
  • A notice of withdrawal must be given to other parties and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), three months in advance, and such notice shall include a statement of the extraordinary events it regards as having jeopardised its supreme interests.

Exiting the treaty raises two major concerns: 

  • Increased opacity in Iran’s Nuclear program: It will keep Iran out of the IAEA’s purview and regular inspections. IAEA would lose access to visit nuclear-sites in Iran. 
  • Set a precedent to exit NPT: It could set a precedent for other states to leave the global framework and weaken cooperation on nuclear non-proliferation.

However, remaining in the NPT does not necessarily signal an intention to build nuclear weapons, because signatories (like North Korea) have also developed weapons in the past. 

US enters in Iran-Israel Conflict

Context: Recently, the United States attacked three key nuclear installations in Iran- Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz, with the US President claiming that all the three facilities had been completely and totally obliterated. This marked the entry of the US into the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Locations in News- Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz

Mains: Significance of US entry in Iran for the world.

Israel-Iran Conflict- Recent Developments

  • All the three facilities targeted by the US are key uranium enrichment sites that house the infrastructure to convert natural uranium into highly enriched uranium (HEU) that is needed to make a nuclear bomb. 
  • The US attacks follow a series of missile strikes by Israel which had targeted Iran’s nuclear installations, most notably Natanz. 
    • Natanz is Iran’s main enrichment site that had Uranium enriched up to 60% purity before Israeli strikes destroyed a part of this facility. 
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In retaliation, Iran launched missile attacks at the al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest American base in West Asia. Qatar said it successfully intercepted the missiles and that there were no deaths and injuries. 

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What bombs did the US use to strike Iran?

  • The US forces used six B-2 stealth bombers to drop 12 bunker-buster bombs on Fordow. 
  • Navy submarines fired 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles at Natanz and Isfahan, while a B2 dropped two bunker busters on Natanz.
  • These B-2 stealth bombers are equipped with the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a 30,000-pound bunker-buster bomb designed to dismantle heavily fortified underground targets. This type of bomb is unique to the US arsenal and is considered the only weapon capable of effectively targeting Iran’s most protected nuclear facilities.

Why has the US attacked Iran?

  • The US has for long opposed Iran possessing a nuclear weapon and was in talks with the country to strike a nuclear deal when Israel attacked Iran on June 13, triggering retaliation from Iran.
  • Iran has maintained that its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes, however, the US and Israel believe Iran could potentially assemble a nuclear weapon.
  • Recently, the International Atomic Energy Agency censured Iran for the first time in 20 years for not working with its inspectors. It happened amid talks between the US and Iran for the removal of economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for reducing or ending uranium enrichment. 
  • The stalemate in the nuclear talks prompted the US to issue a cautionary statement that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. 
  • Iran has maintained that it would not discuss the future course of its nuclear programme while at war with Israel.

US enters in Iran-Israel Conflict- Significance & Implications

  • Stronger US-Israel bond: The strikes marked the first full-fledged demonstration of US's “iron-clad” support for Israel. Israel claims that Iran is developing nuclear weapons and posing an existential threat to it. It has long sought to target Iran’s nuclear program, but lacked the capability to take out the facility in Fordow.
  • Weakened Iran: Israel has claimed to have destroyed about one-third of Iran’s missile launching capabilities. The US B-2 bombers came in and out of Iranian airspace unchallenged is proof of the degraded capacity of Iran. The strikes have eliminated top Iranian military officials and over 600 civilians. Iran is now at its weakest, politically and militarily.
  • Ghosts of Iraq: Iran has criticised the US for violating international law and attacking its territorial sovereignty. The premise for the US attacks (that Iran was close to building a nuclear bomb) is being compared/criticised to US invasion on Iraq in 2003, when it made claims about the country possessing Weapons of Mass Destruction. This led to a bloody war over 8 years, destabilisation of the region, and emergence of Daesh in Iraq in around 2012. 

Concerns

  • Potential Nuclear Disaster in Iran: The attacks by Israel and the US have led to fears of a potential nuclear disaster, in the form of a nuclear explosion, or large-scale nuclear radiation leaks. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has not seen any increase in off-site radiation levels following the US’s attack.
  • Disruption of Trade via Strait of Hormuz: Iran’s parliament (the Majlis) has approved the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to the attacks by the US. Any ballistic missile and rocket attack in the Persian Gulf, including by the Houthis in the Red Sea region, will raise the economic cost. 
  • Escalation of Conflict and global instability: With the entry of the US, and Iran’s retaliatory strikes of the US bases in Qatar, raises concerns of a full-scale war which can have serious economic, security, humanitarian implications and cause instability in the middle-east region and the world. 
  • Iran could exit NPT: Iran has the legal right to withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) owing to the US strikes. Article 10 states that an NPT member has the right to withdraw from the Treaty if it decides that extraordinary events have jeopardised the supreme interests of its country. Exiting NPT will keep Iran out of the IAEA’s purview and regular inspections, and it could set a precedent for other states to leave the treaty.

India’s Stand

  • The Indian Prime Minister spoke with the President of Iran and called for immediate de-escalation, hours after the US struck three prominent nuclear sites in Iran. 
  • India launched Operation Sindhu to bring back Indians from Iran and Israel in view of increasing hostilities between the two nations.
  • India increased its purchases of Russian oil in June, importing more than the combined volumes from West Asian suppliers such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq, amid market volatility triggered by Israel’s attack on Iran.

Exercise Khaan Quest

Context: Exercise Khaan Quest 2025 is a multinational military exercise being hosted by Mongolia in Ulaanbaatar from June 14 to June 28.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts: Exercise Khaan Quest. 

Exercise Khaan Quest

  • It is an annual joint military exercise that brings together military forces from around the world. This year’s exercise involves military contingents from over 20 countries, including India. 
  • The current year is the 22nd iteration of the exercise.
    • The exercise first started as a bilateral event between the US and Mongolian armed forces in 2003. 
    • Subsequently, from 2006 onwards, the exercise graduated to a multinational peacekeeping exercise.
  • Objective: To collaborate and enhance their peacekeeping capabilities. 
  • Focus: The exercise focuses on a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning and joint tactical drills.

The aim of the exercise is to also prepare the Indian armed forces for peacekeeping missions while operating in a multinational environment, thereby increasing interoperability and military readiness in peace support operations. An Indian Army contingent is being represented by 40 personnel. 

India's Nuclear Arsenal Increased: SIPRI Report 2025

Context: According to the latest Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) yearbook 2025, India has slightly expanded its nuclear stockpile in 2024, and continues developing new nuclear delivery systems. 

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about the SIPRI yearbook 2025

State of World Nuclear Arsenal

  • India had nuclear 172 warheads in 2024 and increased it to 180 in 2025. These warheads are in the country's stockpile, i.e., they are available to be deployed for operational use. India continues the development of new delivery systems, including canisterised missiles that may carry multiple warheads.
  • There are 12,241 nuke warheads globally, spread across nine nuclear-armed countries. The US and Russia own 90% of nuclear warheads. In comparison to India, China has 600 warheads and Pakistan has 170. 
  • Nine nuclear-armed countries are the US, Russia, the UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel. 
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About Stockholm International Peace Research Institute

  • SIPRI is an independent international institute dedicated to research on conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament established in 1966.
  • It publishes reports on global arms transfers, tracking trends in arms imports and exports.
  • It aims to provide data-driven insights for policy-making in global security and military affairs.

India’s Nuclear Strategy

  • After conducting its second nuclear test in 1998, India adopted the 'no first use' policy. India's focus was on minimum credible deterrence, i.e. to have enough weapons that the enemy could suffer heavy losses in a counter-attack.
  • India’s growing stockpile is part of a maturing nuclear triad, a strategy involving delivery of nuclear weapons via aircraft, land-based missiles, and nuclear-powered submarines (SSBNs).
  • Traditionally, India has kept its warheads separate from launch systems during peacetime, but SIPRI suggests that the move toward canisterised missiles and sea-based patrols may indicate a shift in doctrine.

SIPRI’s Report cautions that if no new agreement is reached to cap nuclear stockpiles, the number of warheads deployed on strategic missiles might increase after the expiry of the bilateral 2010 Treaty on Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms (New START) in 2026. 

India Supports Cyprus’s Sovereignty

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister of India visited Cyprus. This is the first visit by an Indian PM to Cyprus in over 20 years, and is being seen by many as a strategic signal to Turkey, which has steadily deepened its ties with Pakistan.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Location of Cyprus. Mains: Bilateral Relations: India-Cyprus.  

India-Cyprus Ties

  • India has backed the territorial integrity of Cyprus and called for a resolution of the Cyprus issue under UNSC resolutions and international law.
  • Cyprus supports Indiaʼs candidature as a permanent member of the expanded UN Security Council. 
  • Cyprus has extended its full support for the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, within the Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
  • On issues like Kashmir, Cyprus has supported India and even showed solidarity after the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack.
  • The small but active Indian community in Cyprus strengthens people-to-people ties and enhances India’s soft power presence in the region.

Why is Cyprus important to India?

  • Strategic location in Mediterranean: Cyprus' geographic location makes it a crucial part of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), an infrastructure project that India expects multiple benefits from.
    • IMEC is supposed to boost trade and connectivity between India and Europe via the Middle East, and Cyprus, in the Mediterranean, has an important role to play.
  • Upcoming EU Presidency: Cyprus is set to hold the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2026. looks to build stronger trade and security ties with Europe, so Cyprus could be a crucial ally.
  • Counter Turkey: Cyprus has a long-standing and unresolved conflict with Turkey, which occupies Northern Cyprus and recognises it as a separate state. 

Location of Cyprus:

  • Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus) is an island country in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. 
  • Situated in West Asia, it is located southeast of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and Lebanon, northwest of Israel and Palestine, and north of Egypt. 
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Political Boundaries: 

Cyprus is divided into two main political entities. 

  • The Republic of Cyprus controls the southern two-thirds of the island. It is internationally recognised and a member of the European Union (EU).  
  • The northern part is administered by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is only recognised by Turkey, with heavy Turkish military and economic backing. 
  • The division of the island dates back to 1974 following a Turkish invasion triggered by a Greek-led coup (aimed at annexing the island to Greece).
  • The buffer zone is known as the Green Line, and is patrolled by United Nations peacekeepers.

By deepening engagement with Cyprus, a rival of Turkey, India s sending a subtle but firm diplomatic message- If Turkey continues to back Pakistan's anti-India agenda, India would not hesitate to build stronger ties with its adversaries in the region. 

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