ACROSS recent decades, a striking pattern has emerged: nations facing contestation often experience significant economic and military weakening before major crises or interventions.

This is particularly visible in several Muslim-majority states—from Iraq under 1990s sanctions, Libya before 2011 intervention, to Syria during its civil war. The Arab Spring further highlights how economic instability and political fragmentation leave states vulnerable to internal and external pressures. In South Asia, Pakistan faces regional pressures from Afghanistan and India, while Iran endures decades of sanctions and diplomatic isolation, all of which undermine economic stability, technological development and military readiness, setting the stage for intensified geopolitical challenges.

Continuous conflicts and security challenges drain national resources, leaving countries increasingly exposed. Internal issues such as political instability, governance weaknesses, corruption and fragile........

© Pakistan Observer