News18 Explainers

Trump Has a Pakistan Problem. India's Patience May Be Running Out

Donald Trump’s erratic handling of the India-Pakistan conflict — from ceasefire claims to bizarre boasts about averting nuclear war — reflect not just poor judgment but a lingering free pass to Pakistan's terror machine. More troubling is his family's business involvement with Pakistan, which adds a personal layer to the problem. This isn't just bad optics; it risks damaging India-US ties. What is Trump’s Pakistan problem? How does it affect India-US relations? What should India’s message be going forward? Shubhangi Sharma explains.

Influencer. Vlogger. Spy? The Curious Case Of Jyoti Malhotra

A Haryana-based influencer with a camera and a passport is now behind bars—accused of espionage, foreign funding, and diplomatic links. We unpack the arrest of Jyoti Malhotra, and what it reveals about the murky intersection of content, politics, and national security. Tune in...

India’s Afghan Jalebi: Taliban Outreach Corners Pakistan on All Fronts

On May 15, a seemingly routine call between India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and the Taliban’s acting foreign minister sent shockwaves through South Asia’s geopolitical landscape. This wasn’t just diplomacy—it was a strategic chess move. In this episode of Straight Talk, we unpack how New Delhi’s quiet engagement with Kabul is cornering Islamabad from all sides.

How India Called Pakistan’s Nuclear Bluff

India has long warned the world about the dangers of Pakistan’s nuclear brinkmanship — and now, those warnings are gaining renewed urgency. As global concern rises over Islamabad’s ambiguous nuclear doctrine, India is pushing back with clarity and strength. This episode unpacks how New Delhi has challenged Pakistan’s deterrence narrative, why sensitive sites like Kirana Hills matter more than ever, and how Pakistan’s nuclear ambiguity is beginning to unravel under international scrutiny.

Turkey-Pakistan Drone Nexus: New Test For India's Foreign Policy

Amid reports of Turkish-supplied kamikaze drones being used in Pakistan's attempted strikes on Indian soil, India is signaling a major diplomatic shift. This episode of News18 Explainers unpacks the growing rift with Turkey, the strategic implications of military alignment between Ankara and Islamabad, and how New Delhi is responding with firm trade, tourism, and diplomatic recalibrations. As anti-Turkey sentiment rises and global powers hedge their positions, India asserts its security priorities and regional red lines. Tune in for a deep dive...

$2.4 Billion... And Counting: IMF's Flawed Logic Behind Pakistan Bailouts

The IMF has approved a $2.4 billion loan package for Pakistan—despite its dismal economic track record, repeated bailouts, and global concerns about terror financing. India abstained from the vote, raising strong objections, but procedural limitations tied its hands. Why does Pakistan keep getting bailed out? Why couldn’t India stop it? This episode breaks down the flawed logic behind the IMF’s decision and why it’s sparking serious calls for reform.

Operation Sindoor Draws India's New Red Line

In this episode of Straight Talk, we break down Operation Sindoor — the seismic military offensive that shook Pakistan to its core. From precision strikes on fortified air bases to the unprecedented targeting of terror strongholds in Muridke and Bahawalpur, we unpack how India’s bold new doctrine under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shattered decades of strategic restraint.

Counting Caste In Census: A Seismic Shift

After over seven decades, India is preparing to bring caste back into the national census. Why now? And what does this seismic shift mean for social justice, political power, and affirmative action?

Operation Sindoor: Is War Close?

A 25-minute precision strike at 1:05am on May 7. Nine terror camps hit. India’s Operation Sindoor has shaken Pakistan. We break down what really happened, debunk fighter jet rumours, assess border tensions, the shelling situation, global reactions, and whether war is on the horizon. Tune in.

Pakistan’s Moment of Reckoning: Is This 1971 Redux?

A limited but precise military engagement, calibrated to avoid global escalation, combined with sustained economic, diplomatic and intelligence operations, could be enough to push Pakistan over the cliff.