http://ajips.fairlips.org/index.php/ajips <p class="aboutus-text"><strong>ASIAN Journal of International Peace and Security (AJIPS)</strong> is an <strong>HEC recognized (Y category) </strong>quarterly [since 2021, previously biannual (2020 and annual 2017-2019)] double-blind peer-review research journal of the <strong>Foundation for Advancement of Independent Research and Learning for International Peace and Security (FAIRLIPS).</strong> The foundation aims to promote independent research and learning, both indispensable for securing international peace and security.</p> <p class="aboutus-text">The journal endeavors to advance the mission, principles, aims, and objectives of the foundation. It believes in the principles of strict adherence to objectivity, impartiality, and neutrality as well as access to truth and its transmission. Its main aim is to supplement the foundation’s objectives particularly: to create, promote and disseminate knowledge, and; to provide researchers from all over the world especially from the developing states such as Pakistan and other regional countries a forum to help publish their research on fast track basis.</p> Foundation for Advancement of Independent Research & Learning for International Peace & Security (FAIRLIPS) en-US ASIAN Journal of International Peace & Security (AJIPS) 2707-8809 http://ajips.fairlips.org/index.php/ajips/article/view/2025-vol-09-issue-1-from-confrontation-to-reconciliation <p>Amid shifting geopolitical currents in the Middle East, analyzing changes in inter-state relations is essential for assessing prospects for regional stability. This research explores the 2023 Saudi-Iran rapprochement through the lens of Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT), situating it within broader regional security dynamics. Long defined by sectarian, ideological and geopolitical rivalries, the Saudi-Iranian relationship has fueled proxy conflicts and deepened fragmentation across the the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The recent normalization of ties, brokered by China, marks a pivotal diplomatic development, prompting critical inquiry into its underlying drivers, sustainability and broader implications for conflict resolution and alliance reconfiguration. Given the authoritarian nature of most regimes in the region, the paper focuses on the state-dominated institution, such as security mechanisms, while also examining informal power structures, including religious establishments and elite networks. Utilizing qualitative case studies of Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, the research examines how this rapprochement is reshaping threat perceptions, patterns of proxy warfare and alliance behaviour. While preliminary signs indicate a cautious de-escalation and emerging regional pragmatism, persistent structural barriers such as mutual distrust, ideological divides and unresolved conflicts continue to challenge the durability of peace. The paper argues that this détente represents a tactical recalibration driven by strategic necessity, rather than a transformative shift in the MENA security architecture.</p> Sobia Shabir Noor Fatima Copyright (c) 2025 ASIAN Journal of International Peace & Security (AJIPS) 2025-03-25 2025-03-25 9 1 1 13 http://ajips.fairlips.org/index.php/ajips/article/view/2025-vol-09-issue-1-the-hindutvafication-of-jammu-kashmir <p>Over last seven decades, Kashmir conflict has evolved as a major issue of contention between Pakistan and India. Though both states have intermittently managed to strike breakthroughs through dialogue and negotiations; with Bharatiya Janata Party led government ruling India, the political and demographic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir has continued to deteriorate since 2014. After the revocation of Articles 370 and 35-A of Indian Constitution in 2019, Modi administration has reportedly issued a substantial number of domicile certificates to non-residents Hindus for converting the in to a Hindu dominated region. This study analyzes the ideological concept of Hindutva and its implementation by Modi government in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), its impacts on regional security and its evolution as a nuclear flashpoint between Pakistan and India. Using a qualitative approach based on secondary data, the paper also evaluates policy shifts, demographic transformations, strategic competition and bilateral tensions between India and Pakistan.</p> Maliha Mughal Copyright (c) 2025 ASIAN Journal of International Peace & Security (AJIPS) 2025-03-25 2025-03-25 9 1 14 29