A pivotal panel discussion at the IBA Karachi today underscored the deepening global instability and the critical challenges to deterrence stability across South and West Asia, with particular emphasis on the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the implications of a Fourth Nuclear Age.
The thought-provoking session, organised by the School of Economics and Social Sciences (IBA-SESS), convened leading experts to examine the evolving nature of conflict, international law, and regional security, according to a statement issued today.
The distinguished panel included Professor Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Interim Vice Chancellor and Meritorious Professor, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, who participated online; Ms. Reema Omer, a prominent Lawyer and Human Rights Professional; and Dr. Sajjad Ahmed, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, IBA. The dialogue was skillfully moderated by Dr. Farhan Hanif Siddiqi, Professor and Chairperson, Department of Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, IBA.
Dr. Siddiqi initiated the discussion by framing the conversation around recent militarised crises within the international system. He specifically cited the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the continuing crisis in Gaza, escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, and the persistent pattern of escalation observed in South Asia.
Professor Dr. Jaspal then delved into the concept of the “Fourth Nuclear Age,” highlighting a global strategic environment increasingly characterised by state-to-state conflict and the renewed centrality of military power. He also drew attention to the weakening of established nuclear arms control frameworks.
Ms. Omer provided an analysis of the legality of contemporary wars under international law. She stressed that despite its often selective application, international law remains an indispensable tool for accountability, especially for the Global South, and outlined key principles related to the use of force, self-defence, and international navigation.
Dr. Ahmed contributed insights into Iran’s foreign policy, its domestic resilience, and its broader strategic outlook. He elucidated how the nation’s historical experiences, the prevailing sanctions environment, and its national security concerns have collectively shaped its regional posture, further reflecting on Iran”s approach to sovereignty and its resistance to external domination.
The debate further encompassed critical issues such as India-Pakistan relations, the concept of deterrence by denial, and the inherent risks of future escalation. Panellists also scrutinised the implications of advanced military technologies, including missile systems, drones, cyber operations, and multi-domain warfare, for maintaining crisis stability.
The session concluded with an interactive question and answer segment, providing an opportunity for students, faculty, and other attendees to engage directly with the experts.