Dynamics of Confrontation in the Middle East: What We Need to Know

Conflict dynamics in the Middle East is a complex issue involving various historical, political, economic and social factors. The region is known for its ethnic and religious diversity, which often fuels tensions. Some of the key elements in this conflict include the influence of great powers, identity struggles, and natural resources. One major factor is the shift in global power. After the end of the Cold War, many countries in the Middle East experienced significant political changes. The intervention of the US and other major powers often makes things worse. For example, the invasion of Iraq in 2003 not only changed the Iraqi government but also sparked the emergence of extremist groups such as ISIS. This adds to the dynamics of existing conflicts, such as between Israel and Palestine. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the most profound and ongoing issues in the region. The roots of this problem can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the Zionist movement and Arab nationalism began to develop. The establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent war sparked mass displacement of Palestinians, creating problems that continue to simmer to this day. Peace dialogues held over the past decade have often stalled without real progress. The influence of regional powers cannot be ignored either. Iran and Saudi Arabia, as the two main powers, are often involved in proxy wars in countries such as Syria, Yemen and Iraq. The ideological rivalry between Sunnis (Saudi Arabia) and Shiites (Iran) adds a layer of complexity to the existing conflict. Natural resources, especially oil, are also a driving factor. Oil-producing countries often use their wealth to strengthen their political and military influence. Apart from that, humanitarian issues are also often marginalized. The protracted conflict resulted in a humanitarian disaster, with millions of people displaced, forced to flee their homes due to the violence. The UN and various humanitarian organizations continue to struggle to provide assistance, although often hampered by the poor security situation. Social dynamics in Middle Eastern countries are increasingly developing with the emergence of pro-democracy movements, as seen during the Arab Spring. However, hopes for reform are often met with the repressiveness of the ruling regime. Youth activism, especially on social media, has become an important tool in expressing dissatisfaction and pushing for change. Climate change is also starting to affect stability in the region. Uncertainty over water resources and agriculture could exacerbate existing tensions. Economic instability, especially due to oil price fluctuations, is a major challenge facing many countries in the Middle East. The international community plays an important role in the conflict in the Middle East. Diplomacy, sanctions and military intervention are often the main tools in efforts to mitigate conflict. However, this approach often does not achieve the expected goals. It is important to understand that conflict in the Middle East is not only the result of religious or ethnic differences, but also the result of political injustice, economic inequality, and social problems. Any proposed solution must include local and international perspectives with an approach committed to sustainable peace and stability.