The Quad, consisting of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, aims to maintain security and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Formed initially in 2007, it was re-established in 2017 but is now challenged by an unofficial alliance led by China, including Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

China views the Quad as a threat to its expansionist policies.

Recent provocations by China include testing an intercontinental ballistic missile targeting the US, conducting joint naval exercises with Russia near Japan, and fostering alliances in the Middle East with Iran against shipping routes.

North Korea has also tested ballistic missiles targeting the US, Japan, and South Korea, indicating increased regional tensions.