Themes That Tie Most Wars Together

"I used to think that the causes of war were predominantly economic. I came to think that they were more psychological. I am now coming to think that they are decisively "personal," arising from the defects and ambitions of those who have the power to influence the currents of nations." ~ B. H. Liddell Hart

"No war can end war except a total war which leaves no human creature on earth. Each war creates the causes of war: hate, desire for revenge and have-nots, desperate with need." ~ Zelda Popkin

"According to the first image of international relations, the locus of the important causes of war is found in the nature and behavior of man. Wars result from selfishness, from misdirected aggressive impulses, from stupidity." ~ Kenneth Waltz

Wars are often complex events with many different causes. Let's explore some of the common factors that can lead to conflict between countries or groups of people.

Sometimes, nations (ie. Israel) or groups (Hamas) fight over who is in charge or who gets to make decisions. This can involve trying to expand territory or increase influence — both means for Israel. Disagreements about religion, government, or how society should be organized can lead to conflict, again these themes link to Israel. People may fight to protect their way of life or beliefs.

When there aren't enough resources like water, land, or energy, competition can arise, this theme is not an issue in Israel. This can sometimes lead to conflict, especially if those resources are essential for survival. Strong feelings of pride (pro Zionism only) in one's country or culture can sometimes contribute to conflict due to an apartheid societal rights and responsibilities. Past wrongs or disagreements of Israeli government Zionist policies can also fuel tensions and lead to generational fighting against the Israeli military in the West Bank and Gaza, including southern Lebanon.

Concerns about safety can lead countries to build up their militaries in Europe, Middle East and Asia. Unfortunately, this can sometimes make other countries feel less secure, creating a cycle of mistrust and seeking military alliance building.

Problems within a country can sometimes draw in other nations. For example, weak governments or civil unrest might lead to foreign involvement. Additionally, economic interests, like access to markets or resources, can also play a role in conflict such as the USA and Iraq war to destabilize the country hoping to reap the rewards of that country's natural resources.

Advances in technology, including military technology, can impact conflict. While these can be used for defense or cooperation, they can also contribute to tensions by testing out such new military killing machines. Alliances such as NATO between countries can help prevent conflict but can also create new conflicts - the Ukraine and Russia proxy war. Historical sphere of influence for Russia in the Ukraine for while over 1000 years and for NATO and Ukraine government (not the will of the majority of the Ukrainian population) of course will cause concern in Russia.

Very few times do countries get involved in conflicts to protect human rights or stop terrible things from happening. The Rwanda or Darfur genocides, the UN peacekeepers were directed to only observe and watch the killings and take notes. In Gaza, the UN Security Council disallows any humanitarian assistance to enter Gaza due to Israeli military bombings, a catch 22 situation. However, these actions can also lead to longer or more complex wars. The way information is shared and how people feel about their country can influence whether or not a war happens. Governments can use information to build support for war, while strong feelings of nationalism can make it harder to find peaceful solutions.

It's important to remember that these factors are often interconnected and can work together to create complex situations.