State Conflict in the Middle East: Reasons and Impact
The conflict in the Middle East is a reflection of long-standing social, political and economic complexity. Various factors causing this conflict include a long history of colonialism, shifts in regional power, as well as ethnic and religious differences. Tensions between Sunnis and Shiites are one of the most prominent examples, resulting in widespread fighting in countries such as Iraq, Syria and Yemen.
The strategic position of the Middle East as an oil field and international trade route further complicates the situation. Many large powers, such as the United States and Russia, interact actively in the region, often with conflicting goals. This involvement brought in political and economic interests, which exacerbated existing tensions.
One of the most obvious examples is the Syrian Civil War which began in 2011. This conflict began with peaceful protests against the government of Bashar al-Assad which turned into open war. Many external actors, including extremist groups such as ISIS, intervened, turning this conflict into a battlefield with global impacts.
The human impact of this conflict is enormous. More than 11 million people have fled Syria, creating a major refugee crisis that is burdening neighboring countries and Europe. Average living conditions in Syria have deteriorated drastically, with many children losing access to education. This creates a vulnerable and frustrated generation, which could be the seed of future conflict.
In Yemen, the conflict that began in 2015 resulted in the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. The war between the Iran-backed Houthi group and the Saudi Arabian coalition-backed government has left millions of people facing hunger and disease. Blockades imposed by conflict parties exacerbate the situation, and international assistance is often obstructed.
From a political perspective, the conflict in the Middle East also raises questions about government stability. Many countries such as Iraq and Libya have faced difficulties in building strong institutions after the fall of authoritarian regimes. This instability makes these countries vulnerable to radicalization and violence.
In conclusion, the conflict in the Middle East cannot be seen as just a local issue, but has deep global implications. Countries around the world must engage in efforts to find a peaceful solution, in order to prevent further escalation and address the resulting humanitarian impact. A better understanding of the dynamics of these conflicts is essential to building a more stable future in the region.