The conflict between Israel and Hamas, most recently
highlighted by the devastating attack on October 7th, 2023, reflects not only a
deep-rooted historical and religious dispute but also a broader struggle for
power, control, and influence in the region. As Israel continues its military
campaign against Hamas in Gaza and targets Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, the
question arises: Why do Jews, Israelites, and Arabs continue to fight over this
small piece of land when the world is so vast? And why do global powers,
particularly the United States, consistently intervene in these conflicts as
well as in others, such as the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine?
To explore these questions, we must not only look at
the history of the region but also at the geopolitical, economic, and
environmental forces at play on the global stage.
Why Do Jews,
Israelites, and Arabs Continue to Fight?
The conflict over the land of Israel and Palestine is
as much about history, religion, and identity as it is about geography. The
land holds immense religious significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims
alike, making it more than just territory; it is a symbol of faith, identity,
and belonging.
1. Religious Significance: For Jews, the land of Israel is
their ancestral home, promised to them in their religious texts. For Muslims,
Jerusalem is the third holiest site in Islam, and many Palestinians view the
land as an integral part of their cultural and national identity. This clash of
religious and historical narratives fuels the ongoing tension, making
compromise difficult.
2. Historical Grievances: The displacement of Palestinians
during the establishment of Israel in 1948, and the subsequent wars, have left
deep wounds on both sides. Israelis fear for their security in a region where
they are often surrounded by hostile neighbors, while Palestinians seek
recognition of their rights and the establishment of a state. These grievances
have been passed down through generations, ensuring that the conflict
continues.
3. Geopolitical Interests: While the land itself is small,
its location is strategic. Israel sits at the crossroads of the Middle East, a
region rich in resources like oil and gas and with key maritime routes. Control
over this region has long been of interest to global powers, adding an
additional layer of complexity to the conflict.
The Role of the
United States: Why Do They Keep Intervening?
The United States has been a central player in global
conflicts, from the Middle East to Eastern Europe. But why do they intervene so
consistently, whether in Israel and Palestine, or in the war between Russia and
Ukraine?
1. Geopolitical Power: The U.S. has long sought to
maintain its influence on the global stage. By intervening in conflicts, they
aim to shape the outcome in ways that align with their strategic interests. In
the Middle East, maintaining a strong alliance with Israel is crucial for
ensuring stability and influence in a region that is key to global energy
supplies.
2. Economic Interests: Some argue that many conflicts
today are driven not by ideology or religion but by economic interests. Wars
disrupt markets, drive up the price of commodities like oil and natural gas,
and create opportunities for the arms industry and other sectors. The U.S., as
a major economic power, benefits indirectly from these dynamics, whether
through controlling resources or maintaining dominance in global markets.
3. The War in Ukraine: In the case of the Russia-Ukraine
war, the U.S. views Russia’s aggression as a threat to the post-World War II
order that they helped establish. Ukraine represents the front line in a
broader struggle between democratic nations and authoritarian regimes. By
supporting Ukraine, the U.S. is not only defending a sovereign nation but also
asserting its role as the guarantor of a global order built on rules and norms.
Is It About
Religion, or Something More?
While religion and identity are certainly central to
many conflicts, including the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, it is becoming
increasingly clear that economic and geopolitical factors often play a more
decisive role in driving wars. The global economy is intricately connected to
these conflicts, as wars create shifts in markets, disrupt trade, and open
opportunities for profit.
However, we cannot overlook another critical issue:
the growing climate crisis. The devastation caused by climate change is
directly linked to the actions of a few who prioritize profit over the planet.
The wealthiest individuals and corporations, driven by greed, contribute
disproportionately to environmental degradation, while the world’s poorest bear
the brunt of its effects. Climate change is the result of decisions made by
the excessively rich, who continue to exploit natural resources without considering
the long-term consequences for the planet and humanity.
The Role of
Climate Change in Global Instability
The consequences of climate change exacerbate existing
global tensions. In regions like the Middle East, where water and arable land
are already scarce, climate change intensifies competition over resources,
leading to more conflict. Additionally, climate-related disasters, such as
droughts, floods, and extreme heat, displace millions of people, creating new
waves of refugees and increasing instability in already volatile regions.
In this context, the question arises: Are the
conflicts we see today really about religious differences, or are they symptoms
of a deeper, systemic issue rooted in greed and the quest for power?
Many believe that global elites and corporations are
more interested in maintaining their wealth and control than in addressing the
root causes of war, poverty, and environmental destruction. These powerful
actors shape the world according to their interests, leaving the rest of
society to deal with the consequences, whether through war, economic
inequality, or environmental collapse.
A New Era:
Could 2026 Be a Turning Point?
As the world faces these interconnected challenges, many
hope that 2026 could mark the beginning of a global shift. There is growing
awareness among people worldwide that the current system is unsustainable, and
a change is needed to break the cycle of injustice that has long dominated
society. This shift may come through grassroots movements, technological
innovation, or a broader cultural awakening that prioritizes sustainability,
equity, and peace over profit.
As people become more aware of the climate crisis and
the role of the ultra-wealthy in perpetuating these conflicts, there is a
growing sense that a reckoning is coming. In 2026, we may see a societal
transformation, as the world demands a fairer, more just system that puts
people and the planet above the interests of a small elite.
The World Pays
for the Mistakes of the Few
In many ways, the global community continues to pay
the price for the decisions of a few powerful leaders and elites. Whether it’s
the U.S. intervening in yet another war, or billionaires profiting from global
instability, it seems that ordinary people are the ones who suffer most.
Resources that could be used to improve education, healthcare, and the
environment are instead funneled into military budgets and reconstruction
efforts after wars that never seem to end.
This cycle raises an important question: Are these
wars truly about protecting religious identity or national sovereignty? Or are
they, at their core, about maintaining control over resources, money, and
power?
Conclusion: A
Call for Reflection and Understanding
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, like
many of today’s wars, reflects not just a struggle over land, but a broader
battle for influence, control, and, increasingly, the sustainability of our
planet. The role of global powers, especially the United States, is pivotal in
shaping the outcomes of these conflicts. However, as we reflect on the history
of the region and the current state of world affairs, it’s clear that the
global population, particularly the most vulnerable, often pay the highest
price.
As wars continue and economies shift, climate
change looms as an existential threat that could exacerbate global
instability if not addressed. The actions of the few — driven by profit and
power — have created a world where both conflict and environmental collapse seem
inevitable, but 2026 might be a turning point. It could mark the
beginning of a global awakening, where people worldwide demand an end to the
cycle of injustice and begin building a fairer, more sustainable future.
Saisi
