Ongoing Conflict in the Middle East: Causes and Impact
Conflict in the Middle East is a complex phenomenon and has been going on for decades. Various factors contribute to these tensions, especially political, economic, and social. One of the main causes is ideological competition between different countries. For example, differences between Sunni and Shia countries lead to protracted tensions, especially visible in Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
Geopolitical interests also play an important role. Large countries such as the United States, Russia and China have strategic interests in this region, which often results in military intervention or support for certain parties. For example, the US intervention in Iraq in 2003 was not only to overthrow Saddam Hussein but also to secure access to abundant oil resources.
Economy is another factor that cannot be ignored. Economic disparities between oil-rich countries, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and poorer countries, such as Yemen and Palestine, create horizontal tensions. This often leads to rebellions, as is the case in Yemen, where poverty and hunger plague the people due to prolonged conflict.
This conflict also has deep social impacts. People trapped in fighting often experience long-lasting trauma. Education is hampered, and many children grow up in an environment of conflict, which threatens the future of future generations. In Syria, millions of people have been forced to flee, both internally and to other countries, creating an unprecedented refugee crisis.
The environmental impacts of ongoing conflict are also noteworthy. Infrastructure damage and pollution from fighting are destroying regional ecosystems. In Iraq, for example, the use of chemical weapons has left millions of tons of hazardous materials in the soil, affecting public health and reducing the quality of life.
Finally, social media and information technology have influenced the growth of conflict. The rapid dissemination of information can trigger mass mobilization and radicalization. Additionally, fake news often exacerbates tensions by providing misinformation about the situation on the ground.
Overall, the conflict in the Middle East is not only a local problem but also a global issue that requires attention. A sustainable solution requires a comprehensive approach, combining diplomacy, economic development and social reconciliation efforts. Every party needs to collaborate to achieve stable peace, both within and outside the region.
