Rupert Stone

The US is greatly downplaying the size of the Afghan Taliban

Official estimates of the Afghan Taliban's manpower are wildly off the mark and the Taliban is likely as strong now as it was at the start of the Afghan war in 2001.

Should India talk to the Taliban?

India’s reluctance to engage with the Taliban not only jeopardises its long-term interests in Afghanistan but also puts it at odds with the international community

As Saudi-US relations hit rock bottom, could Saudi turn to Russia or China?

The Khashoggi affair could result in a dramatic rift between America and Saudi Arabia. But it would not isolate the kingdom as Russia and China wait to pick up the pieces.

Can Saudi Arabia play peacemaker in Afghanistan?

The Saudis are making moves in Afghanistan, courting the Taliban and trying to cement its role as a dealmaker. Will Saudi's vested interests trump its role as a mediator?