Saima Afzal is an independent and freelance researcher specializing in South Asian security, the Middle East, Afghanistan, and the Indo-Pacific region. Her work focuses on geopolitical developments, strategic affairs, and regional conflict dynamics. The author regularly contributes her opinion at various International forums on contemporary issues of national and international security. Ms. Afzal, a Pakistani national based in Islamabad, holds an M.Phil. degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from the National Defence University.