Wars and conflicts significantly shape the course of global history and geopolitics. From the War on Terror to the South China Sea disputes, each conflict arises from a combination of political, territorial, and ideological factors. The War on Terror, primarily involving the United States and its allies combating terrorism from groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS, has sparked military interventions in regions such as Afghanistan and Iraq. While the conflict aims to address extremist threats, it has led to widespread geopolitical instability and humanitarian concerns. Similarly, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, deeply rooted in issues of territory, borders, and self-determination, continues to impact the Middle East. The conflict has not only shaped national identities but also fostered global discussions about sovereignty and human rights.

In examining these conflicts, it is crucial to consider the political, economic, and social consequences of war. Military intervention can lead to temporary victories but also result in long-lasting instability, affecting populations and international relations. Understanding the complexity of these issues requires careful analysis of the motives behind the warring parties, the role of diplomacy, and the impact of military strategies.

Notable war & conflict

1. The War on Terror (2001 - Present)
   Key Players: United States, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Coalition Forces (NATO, UK, etc.)
   Context:
   The War on Terror began after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks carried out by Al-Qaeda. The U.S. declared a global campaign against terrorism, focusing on eliminating terrorist organisations like Al-Qaeda and later ISIS, which emerged during the chaos in Iraq. The War on Terror led to military interventions, particularly in Afghanistan (2001) and Iraq (2003). While aimed at dismantling terrorist organisations, these actions have caused widespread instability and long-term consequences.
   Key Events:

• Invasion of Afghanistan (2001): The U.S. led a NATO coalition to oust the Taliban government, which was harbouring Al-Qaeda operatives, including Osama bin Laden. The invasion aimed to dismantle terrorist networks, but it evolved into a prolonged conflict.

• Invasion of Iraq (2003): Justified by the Bush administration under the premise that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and links to terrorism, this invasion led to the toppling of Saddam Hussein's regime. However, no WMDs were found, and the war created a power vacuum, fuelling insurgency and the rise of ISIS.

• Ongoing Drone Strikes and Counterterrorism Efforts: The U.S. has used drones for targeted killings of terrorist leaders in countries like Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia. While these efforts have been effective in eliminating key figures, they have also resulted in civilian casualties and have been criticised for their lack of transparency and accountability.
  Impact:
  The War on Terror has led to the displacement of millions, the death of hundreds of thousands, and the destabilisation of entire regions, especially in the Middle East. It has also altered global security policies, leading to heightened counterterrorism measures and a continuous debate on balancing security with human rights.

1. The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (1948 - Present)
   Key Players: Israel, Palestine, Arab States (Egypt, Jordan, etc.), International Bodies (UN, US, EU)
   Context:
   The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the most enduring and complex conflicts in modern history. It stems from the competing national aspirations of the Jewish and Palestinian peoples over the same land. The origins of the conflict date back to the early 20th century, with tensions arising between Jews, who sought a homeland in Palestine, and Arabs who had lived there for centuries.
   Key Events:

• 1948 Arab-Israeli War: Following the establishment of the state of Israel, surrounding Arab states launched an invasion. The war resulted in the displacement of a large number of Palestinian Arabs, creating a refugee crisis that persists today.

• 1967 Six-Day War: Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, territories that Palestinians claim for a future state. The occupation of these areas remains a key issue in the conflict.

• Oslo Accords (1990s): A significant peace effort in which the Palestinian Authority was established, and both sides agreed to a framework for negotiations. However, tensions continued, and violence erupted again in the early 2000s with the Second Intifada.
  Impact:
  Despite numerous attempts at peace, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains unresolved. The ongoing violence, political instability, and humanitarian issues continue to create significant challenges for both Israel and Palestine, with broad regional and global implications.

1. The South China Sea Disputes (1970s - Present)
   Key Players: China, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, International Organisations (UN, ASEAN)
   Context:
   The South China Sea is one of the most contentious maritime regions in the world due to overlapping territorial claims by several countries. The disputes revolve around the sovereignty of islands, reefs, and waters, as well as access to natural resources like oil, natural gas, and fisheries. The region is strategically important, with major global trade routes passing through it.
   Key Events:

• China's Expansion: China has made extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea, including the "Nine-Dash Line," which overlaps with claims made by other countries like the Philippines and Vietnam. In recent years, China has militarised several islands, constructing airstrips and military facilities, further escalating tensions.

• The Hague Ruling (2016): The Philippines took China to court at The Hague, challenging China's claims in the South China Sea. The ruling favoured the Philippines, declaring that China’s claims have no legal basis, but China rejected the verdict, continuing its activities in the region.

• Increased Military Tensions: As China’s presence in the South China Sea grows, other nations have increased their military presence in the area, either in support of their territorial claims or to ensure freedom of navigation. This has led to confrontations, particularly between China and the U.S. Navy, with both sides wary of an escalation into open conflict.
  Impact:
  The South China Sea disputes threaten regional stability, potentially disrupting global trade and international relations. The lack of resolution on sovereignty claims has created tensions between neighbouring countries and global powers, complicating diplomatic relations in the Asia-Pacific region.