Iran, Air Strikes and Central Asia's Strategic Dilemma

This week, we examine a series of major developments across the region, from unusual trade figures linking Afghanistan and Central Asia, to the expansion of border fencing and fortifications between two Central Asian states. We also look at the arrest of one country's anti-corruption chief on corruption charges, the suspicious death in custody of a man accused of attempted assassination, and Kazakhstan's shifting position on peacekeeper commitments in the Middle East. The episode also explores Turkmenistan's growing role in assisting foreign evacuations out of Iran, before turning to the main story: the war in Iran and the implications it may have for Central Asia, alongside renewed fighting between Afghanistan and Pakistan in some of the heaviest clashes seen since the US withdrawal.

On the show this week:

- Stephen M. Bland (The Times of Central Asia)

Hosted by Bruce Pannier and Michael Hilliard

Proudly brought to you by The Times of Central Asia and The Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs.

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