24 June 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. Iran’s Limited Options
(Source: Editorial Page, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations; GS3 – Internal Security

Context

Following the recent U.S. military strikes on Iranian targets, Iran’s options for retaliation appear limited. The editorial explores the strategic constraints faced by Iran, especially under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, in responding effectively to growing external pressure.

Iran’s Geopolitical Constraints

• Iran finds itself surrounded by hostile regional powers and increasing U.S. surveillance.
• Despite its past ability to employ asymmetrical strategies, the current U.S. offensive leaves little room for Iran to maneuver without major risks.
• Iran’s regional allies (like Hezbollah) also face internal pressure and are unlikely to escalate on Tehran’s behalf.

Military and Diplomatic Limitations

• Iran’s conventional military capacity is outmatched by the U.S.
• International pressure under the IAEA nuclear framework has left Iran diplomatically isolated, especially after the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA (2018).
• New sanctions have crippled Iran’s economy, limiting its resources to fund retaliatory campaigns.

Strategic Dilemmas

• While Iran may wish to assert strength, any retaliation could provoke overwhelming U.S. retaliation.

• Iran’s leadership is likely to respond through proxy forces or cyber warfare instead of direct attacks.

Conclusion/Way Forward

• Iran is likely to adopt a cautious approach—balancing internal political survival with limited external retaliation.
• Strategic patience, indirect engagement, and mobilization of global sympathy through diplomacy may be its most viable options for now.

Practice Question: (GS-2 | 10 Marks | 150 Words) Discuss the challenges faced by Iran in responding to U.S. military aggression. Evaluate its strategic options under international law and regional dynamics.

Also Read: The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 24 June 2025

2. Critical Blockage

(Source: Editorial Page, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS3 – Economy; GS3 – Science and Technology; GS2 – International Trade

Context

China’s decision to restrict the export of rare earth elements is raising alarm across industries globally, particularly in India, where such elements are critical for clean energy, defense, and electronics sectors

China’s Strategic Control Over Rare Earths

• China controls over 60% of global rare earth supplies and over 80% of global processing capacity.
• The new export restrictions are seen as part of its geopolitical maneuvering amidst trade tensions with the West.

Implications for India

• India is highly dependent on China for rare earths like neodymium and dysprosium used in EVs, wind turbines, and missile systems.
• The editorial highlights the lack of domestic mining and processing infrastructure in India, making it vulnerable to such export shocks.

Need for Policy Response

• India must invest in exploration and secure strategic partnerships, especially through the Quad and bilateral ties with Australia.
• Public sector bodies like IREL (India) Limited need more autonomy and funding for indigenous mining.

Conclusion and Way Forward:

• India needs a long-term critical minerals strategy that prioritizes self-reliance, environmental sustainability, and economic competitiveness.
• A national rare earth mission, modeled on the semiconductor mission, can be crucial to strategic autonomy.

Practice Question: (GS-3 | 10 Marks | 150 Words) How does China’s control over rare earth elements impact India’s strategic and economic interests? Suggest policy measures to enhance India’s self-reliance in rare earth supply chains.

Read more – 23 June 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis