Pulse Check x Southeast Asia | Iran War impacts

In April 2026, the Lab engaged nearly 100 non-government experts across nine Southeast Asian countries. Through our unique points allocation methodology, we asked them to assess how the Iran War is reshaping development priorities in their country. We triangulated these results with qualitative responses, and analysis of over 9,000 pieces of local news and social media from across those same countries. The findings are designed to inform Australian policy choices facing decision-makers ahead of the 2026 Australian Federal Budget, and upcoming mid-cycle reviews of Australia’s Development Partnership Plans (DPPs).