UPSC Essentials has launched a series of subject-specific quizzes aimed at aiding students in revising key topics from the static syllabus. Today’s focus is on International Relations, allowing participants to evaluate their understanding of this significant area.
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Regarding the East-West oil pipeline, please evaluate the following statements:
1. The pipeline is entirely located within Saudi Arabia.
2. It facilitates oil exports through ports along the Red Sea.
Which of the above statements are accurate?
Significance: The East-West Pipeline plays a crucial role in bypassing the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz, making it a relevant topic for discussions concerning global energy routes. Given the geopolitical tensions in the West Asian region, understanding such infrastructure is vital for UPSC examinations.
— According to an industry source reported by Reuters, Saudi Arabia’s pivotal East-West oil pipeline, which is its sole conduit for crude oil exports, was targeted during an Iranian assault, alongside other facilities within the kingdom.
— This pipeline extends entirely through Saudi Arabia, connecting Abqaiq in the Eastern Province to Yanbu along the Red Sea. Thus, both statements 1 and 2 are accurate.
— The pipeline transports approximately 7 million barrels per day from the eastern oil-producing regions to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, particularly after Iran effectively closed off the Strait of Hormuz, which had led to significant disruptions in global oil and gas markets.
As a result, the correct answer is option (c).
Now, consider the following statements regarding the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC):
1. It was established in 2001.
2. Bahrain is the smallest member state of the GCC in terms of area.
3. Kuwait is not a founding member and joined the GCC in 2010.
How many of these statements are correct?
Significance: The Gulf Cooperation Council frequently appears in news reports due to its influence on regional stability. Understanding its formation, member countries, and geographical characteristics is essential for UPSC Prelims, especially in mapping and international organization contexts.
— Early in the ongoing conflict, Bahrain, recognized as the GCC’s smallest member, took the unusual step of spearheading a diplomatic initiative against Iran at the United Nations Security Council. Therefore, statement 2 is correct.
— Formed in 1981, the Gulf Cooperation Council, also known as the Cooperation Council for the Arab Gulf States, consists of six member nations: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The GCC was established to address the political, security, and economic challenges facing these nations during a politically volatile period. Thus, statements 1 and 3 are incorrect.
Consequently, the correct answer is option (a).
Please assess the following statements concerning the Houthis:
1. They are an armed political and religious faction advocating for Yemen’s Shia Muslim minority.
2. They are affiliated with the “axis of resistance.”
3. The Houthis captured Sana’a, Yemen’s capital, in 2014.
Select the correct answer from the options below:
Significance: The Houthis are frequently in the news, making them a critical subject for international relations studies. Candidates are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
— Recently, Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis launched ballistic missiles targeting Israel, marking their first attack since the onset of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran on February 28.
— The Houthis are indeed an armed political and religious group representing Yemen’s Zaidis, a Shia Muslim minority. Thus, statement 1 is accurate.
— They are also part of Iran’s network of allies in West Asia, commonly referred to as the “axis of resistance,” which includes groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel has notably diminished the military capabilities of these two groups, leaving the Houthis as potentially Iran’s strongest allies in the region. Therefore, statement 2 is also correct.
— Established in the 1990s by Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi, the movement has shown a persistent interest in opposing the US, which has supported Saudi Arabia against the Houthis. In 2014, they took control of Sana’a, overthrowing the then-president Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi, significantly altering the local power dynamics. Hence, statement 3 is accurate.
Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.
Which neighboring country of India is slated to import 200 broad-gauge (BG) coaches from India?
Significance: This development underscores India’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity as part of its Neighbourhood First Policy. Aspirants should be prepared for questions related to infrastructure advancements between India and its neighbors.
— Bangladesh Railway has announced plans to import 200 broad-gauge (BG) coaches from India. Railway Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam informed the Bangladesh Parliament that financing for these coaches will come from the European Investment Bank, with the delivery expected to begin this year.
— The minister stated that these coaches will be incorporated into the Bangladesh Railway operations between June 2026 and December 2027, and new train routes will be established upon their arrival. Currently, Bangladesh Railway is implementing expansion initiatives to create new broad-gauge and dual-gauge lines. The country’s railway network extends over 3,428.09 km, comprising 1,591.43 km of metre-gauge, 1,066.60 km of broad-gauge, and 770.06 km of dual-gauge tracks.
Therefore, the correct answer is option (c).
In which European nation did a new military service law come into effect at the beginning of 2026?
Significance: This development reflects the growing trend of militarization across various nations.
