Current Affairs Flashcards
(40 cards)
What were the key developments in Iran’s nuclear program between Nov ‘24 and Apr ‘25?
Iran expanded enrichment capacity (6,000+ new centrifuges) after IAEA censure , rejected limits on missiles/proxies in talks , and had enough material for ~6 nuclear weapons by early ‘25.
How did Iran enhance its military capabilities between Nov ‘24 and Apr ‘25?
Iran strengthened air defenses (new radars) after IDF strikes and relied on China for missile propellant , despite a port explosion potentially delaying replenishment.Iran also advanced chemical weapons capabilities.
What role did China play in Iran’s military development?
China provided significant military support, supplying critical ballistic missile propellant ingredients via sanctioned networks, enabling Iran’s military resilience.
What are the main goals of Iran’s Axis of Resistance?
To erode US/Israeli influence, restore Hamas in Gaza, rebuild Hezbollah, control Yemen via Houthis, open a West Bank front, and boost influence in Iraq/Syria.
What were key activities of the Axis of Resistance between Nov ‘24 and Apr ‘25?
Iran funded Hezbollah’s recovery , supported Houthis , Iraqi militias threatened US forces , Houthis attacked shipping , and Hamas attacked in the West Bank.Iran used info ops for deniability.
How did the Iran-Russia strategic partnership evolve?
Formalized Jan ‘25 , involving major gas/oil deals.Russia coordinated with Iran on nuclear issues but is seen as an unviable US-Iran mediator due to its support for Tehran.
What was the significance of the Assad regime’s collapse in Syria (Dec ‘24)?
Assad fell after an HTS-led offensive and fled to Russia.This was a major strategic defeat for Russia and Iran, ending Iran’s “greater project in the Levant”.
What happened in Syria after Assad’s fall?
HTS consolidated power, formed an interim government , negotiated with the SDF (pressuring integration) , while clashes with Turkish-backed SNA continued.Russia negotiated its base presence.
What was the status of the Houthi conflict in Yemen (Nov ‘24 - Apr ‘25)?
Houthis continued Red Sea shipping attacks.US CENTCOM strikes reduced attack frequency but were deemed unlikely to end the threat without addressing Houthi territory.Houthis used complex attacks.
Did Iran continue supporting the Houthis?
Yes, Iran continued support, including weapons shipments , despite attempts to publicly distance itself.Houthi actions aligned with Axis goals.
What was the security and political situation in Iraq (Nov ‘24 - Apr ‘25)?
Iranian-backed militias threatened US forces over withdrawal deadlines.Complex political maneuvering involving Halbousi and Iranian-backed factions highlighted deep Iranian influence over the state.
What was the outcome of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire (Nov ‘24)?
A ceasefire took effect Nov 26 after IDF operations degraded Hezbollah.Assessed as a tactical defeat for Hezbollah, but enforcement by LAF/UNIFIL is considered unlikely.
Did Hezbollah try to rebuild after the ceasefire?
Yes, Iran sent millions in cash to fund Hezbollah’s military reconstitution.Hezbollah financial bodies resumed operations.A joint Hezbollah/Hamas/IRGC plot abroad was thwarted (Apr ‘25).
What characterized the Israel-Hamas ceasefire phase (Jan ‘25 onward)?
A multi-phase deal involved hostage/prisoner swaps and IDF withdrawal from areas like the Netzarim Corridor, allowing civilian return north.Implementation faced delays.
Did Hamas retain influence in Gaza after the ceasefire?
Yes, Hamas demonstrated governing capacity by patrolling aid routes, coordinating aid, and monitoring returnees, acting as a proto-government poised to reassert control.
How did the return of civilians affect the situation in North Gaza?
The increased civilian presence was assessed as likely complicating potential future IDF operations in the area.
What methods did the PRC use against Taiwan between Nov ‘24 and Apr ‘25?
A mix of military intimidation (exercises, intrusions) , political/legal/information warfare , cyber activity , and potential cable cutting.
What was significant about the PRC military exercise in Dec ‘24?
Largest naval fleet in decades (~90 vessels) near Taiwan/Japan , involving multiple commands.Focused on A2/AD and blockade simulation targeting the First Island Chain.Larger and wider scope than previous drills, with no PRC announcement.
What other PRC military activities occurred near Taiwan?
Normalized Coast Guard intrusions near Kinmen (avg 5x/month).Record high-altitude balloon intrusions (11/day Mar ‘25).Development of undersea cable-cutting tech.
How did the PRC interfere with Taiwan’s internal politics?
Exploited DPP-KMT quarrels and recall petitions to create instability.Framed opposition probes as DPP “persecution” to undermine confidence in Taiwan’s democracy.
How did the PLA learn from the war in Ukraine?
PRC officers visited frontlines.Analyzed drone effectiveness.Applied lessons to develop counter-drone systems (e.g., “Bullet Curtain”).
Why is the PLA focusing on counter-drone capabilities?
To prepare for a Taiwan invasion, countering US/Taiwanese defense concepts reliant on drones.Reflects lessons on EW limitations from Ukraine.
Were there signs of instability in PLA leadership?
Rumors circulated about the potential removal of CMC Vice Chairman He Weidong.If true, suggests Xi’s loyalty concerns could hinder modernization.
How did China use economic statecraft globally?
Exploited frustration with US tariffs to divide partners.Positioned itself as a reliable alternative.Used retaliatory tariffs, critical mineral export controls , and threats against S. Korea.
