The hottest Conflict Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

SITREP 10/28/24: Russia Unleashes Lightning Advances in South as 'Red Scare' Hits Fever Pitch

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 13388 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military International relations Conflict
  1. The situation in Ukraine is escalating with new claims of North Korean troop involvement, but there are doubts about the validity of these reports. It seems like a way to either justify war actions or divert attention from failures.
  2. Russian forces are making significant territorial gains in the south, suggesting they are currently in a strong position. This pressures Ukraine to maintain its last strongholds and potentially call for more foreign assistance.
  3. The European and American media narratives seem increasingly disconnected from reality. There are worries that misinformation and exaggerated claims are leading to misunderstanding and escalation of the conflict.

Western democracies are actually pretty good at war

Noahpinion • 21706 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Military Democracy Conflict Geopolitics International relations
  1. Western democracies can actually be very effective in wars, often outperforming autocracies when they choose to engage. This challenges the common belief that autocratic regimes are inherently stronger in military situations.
  2. Democracies tend to be more careful about the wars they fight, often only choosing battles when they have a good chance of winning, which contributes to their higher success rates. Their economy and technological advantages also play a significant role.
  3. While democracies have historically had support from the U.S., the rise of China as a strong autocracy poses new challenges. If conflict arises, democracies might not have the same military or technological edge they used to rely on.

Kiel Institute Report on Ukraine War Manufacturing: A Deep Dive

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 8572 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Defense International relations Conflict
  1. Russia's military production is increasing rapidly, even surpassing the losses they faced in Ukraine. This means they are becoming stronger despite the conflict.
  2. Ukraine's air defense is not as effective as reported, with lower interception rates than the government claims. This highlights a gap between what is being communicated and the reality on the ground.
  3. Germany's military capabilities are struggling to keep up, and in some areas, they are declining. They would need up to 100 years to rebuild their military stockpiles to past levels, in stark contrast to Russia's quick production capabilities.
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Top Links 774 One Big Beautiful Giveaway. How Turkish pistols conquered US markets. The Chinese legacy of Fischer-Tropsch. Haiti's escalating crisis & "where the bombs fall".

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Global Issues Geopolitics Conflict Crisis Management
  1. Turkish pistols have become popular in the U.S. market, showing how global trade can shift consumer preferences.
  2. The Fischer-Tropsch process has a significant connection to China, highlighting its impact on industry and energy production.
  3. Haiti is facing serious challenges, and the discussion around it includes concerns about the consequences of conflict.

Israel and Iran: Where Are We Now?

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 100 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Conflict Geopolitics Diplomacy
  1. Israel has launched an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, reportedly killing key military leaders and scientists. This move raises tensions in the region significantly.
  2. Iran has responded by launching drones towards Israel, marking a potential escalation of conflict. The situation remains very dynamic as both sides prepare for further actions.
  3. The future depends heavily on Iran's next steps; it could either remain cautious or retaliate forcefully, which could lead to a wider war in the Middle East.

When Iranian Missiles Interrupt Shabbat Dinner

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3501 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Middle East Geopolitics Security Terrorism
  1. Living in a place with missile threats means having bomb shelters is very normal, even required for new buildings. It’s a way to feel safer in a dangerous environment.
  2. During tensions, everyday activities like hosting a dinner become acts of courage and normalcy. People still want to enjoy life despite the fear around them.
  3. When air raid sirens go off, some people can quickly get to their own safe spaces while others must rush to public shelters, highlighting a divide in safety.

"You don’t have the cards right now" – "I'm not playing cards Mr President" – "Oh you're playing cards, you're gambling with the lives of millions of people"

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 316 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Political Analysis International Affairs Leadership Conflict
  1. Zelensky has been traveling to talk to world leaders about UKraine, but some people find his approach irritating. He believes in unity and democracy, but others think he’s become too much of a celebrity.
  2. A recent press conference between Zelensky and Trump turned sour, showing a breakdown in US-Ukraine relations. It highlighted disagreements over the war in Ukraine and differing views on responsibility for the conflict.
  3. The press conference was meant to be private negotiations but turned into a public disagreement. Many believe Zelensky didn’t handle the meeting well, and it may have lasting effects on their relationship.

The Gaza Ceasefire Is Being Sabotaged By Israel, By Trump, And By The Media

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1923 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media influence Conflict Government Public Opinion
  1. The Gaza ceasefire is in danger because of continued violence from Israel. Hamas has said they will delay the release of hostages due to these violations.
  2. Donald Trump's comments have influenced Hamas's willingness to uphold the ceasefire. He suggested that if all hostages aren’t returned soon, Israel should escalate its actions, which may lead to more conflict.
  3. Media coverage is biased and often ignores Israel's role in the ceasefire's instability. Headlines emphasize Hamas's actions while downplaying Israeli violations, affecting public perception.

Garry Kasparov: Israel Refuses to Accept the World As It Is

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1975 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict International relations Security Middle East
  1. Israel has recently launched a significant military campaign against Iran's nuclear program, marking a critical shift in geopolitical stability.
  2. The Israeli strikes have not only weakened Iran militarily but have also caused political turmoil, affecting high-ranking officials in Tehran.
  3. There are concerns about the potential consequences of Israel's actions, with some predicting risks of escalation and calls for regime change, but the status quo may have been an illusion all along.

A Nuclear War in Ukraine Is a Distinct Possibility

Glenn’s Substack • 1278 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Conflict Nuclear Issues International relations
  1. NATO's involvement in Ukraine has escalated tensions and contributed to the conflict. This involvement is seen as a major factor in Russia's decision to invade Ukraine.
  2. There were opportunities for peace that were sabotaged by Western leaders, showing that the conflict has become a proxy war. This raises concerns that Ukraine is being used as a tool in a larger geopolitical struggle.
  3. The situation risks escalating to a nuclear war as Russia views NATO's presence as an existential threat. The current standoff is very dangerous, and many feel it could lead to severe consequences.

My Terrorists Face Judgment Day

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1669 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Human Rights Terrorism Geopolitics
  1. Some people are happy about the downfall of powerful figures in Iran, as they have caused a lot of suffering. They see this as a moment of justice.
  2. The author has faced serious threats from Iran's government, including attempts to kidnap and kill them. This shows how dangerous it can be to speak out against oppressive regimes.
  3. The fight for freedom and safety isn't just personal for the author; it's part of a larger struggle many people are facing. Their story highlights the importance of independent journalism in uncovering these issues.

What Happens If Iran’s Regime Collapses?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 496 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Regime Change Democracy International relations Conflict
  1. There's a growing possibility that Iran's regime may collapse, especially after recent military actions and calls for change from figures like Reza Pahlavi, the late Shah's son.
  2. History shows that regime changes don't always lead to stable governments. For example, past changes in Libya and Egypt resulted in chaos and conflict.
  3. Recent protests and movements in Iran suggest that many people are seeking democracy, making the current situation in Iran different from previous regime changes.

Matti Friedman: A Siren. And a New Middle East.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1307 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International relations Military Security
  1. Israelis are used to hearing sirens that warn them about incoming rocket attacks, which happen pretty often.
  2. Recently, a siren sounded, but this time it meant something different, highlighting a shift in the situation.
  3. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has been intense, especially since the regional war started in October 2023.

Washington War Games: How the U.S. Prepared for an Iran Strike

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 848 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Foreign Policy Intelligence Administration Conflict
  1. The Trump administration prepared for military action against Iran starting in February. They wanted to be more involved in the conflict.
  2. In a private dinner, U.S. officials and Iranian dissidents discussed how to attack Iran. They talked about strategies that were very similar to Israel's recent military actions.
  3. Key military moves like targeting Iran's leadership and nuclear program have happened, but certain planned actions were still not carried out at the time of the discussion.

What REALLY happened in Afghanistan?

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 37 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Journalism Afghanistan Taliban Society
  1. Habib Khan Totakhil witnessed the events in Afghanistan first-hand and shares those experiences. It's important to hear stories from people who lived through major changes, like the Taliban takeover.
  2. He emphasizes that we should support the Afghan resistance and not accept Taliban rule as normal. This helps us understand the ongoing struggles in Afghanistan.
  3. The role of journalism in conflict zones is crucial for revealing the truth about situations. Totakhil’s work highlights how important it is to share accurate information during times of war.

The Folly of A War With Iran

The Chris Hedges Report • 548 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military International relations Middle East Conflict
  1. A war with Iran could lead to severe consequences, as Iran has strong military alliances and resources, making it a tough opponent. It wouldn't be an easy conflict for Israel or the U.S.
  2. The potential conflict might not only distract from human rights issues in Gaza and the West Bank, but also escalate tensions in the entire region, possibly making alliances stronger between Iran, Russia, and China.
  3. Past military interventions have often resulted in unforeseen complications and long-term struggles. The belief that a quick military solution will work against Iran ignores the lessons learned from previous wars.

As US floats revival of Istanbul talks, Zelensky and Starmer scramble

Aaron Mate • 100 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Diplomacy Conflict International relations Political Leadership Geopolitics
  1. The US is considering restarting peace talks that were previously halted in Istanbul. This might open new discussions about resolving tensions.
  2. Zelensky and Starmer are actively trying to persuade Trump to support continued military action. They appear to be concerned about losing momentum in their efforts.
  3. The situation is dynamic as different leaders are scrambling to respond to changes in the political landscape. This could impact international relations significantly.

The Players on the Eve of Destruction

Noahpinion • 50647 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics War Conflict International relations Geopolitics Security
  1. War is a real and serious threat in today's world, especially with rising tensions between powerful nations. People often don't understand the huge impact it can have on everyday lives.
  2. Taiwan is an interesting example of how a place can seem peaceful and happy even when there's a looming danger. The people go on with their lives, not fully feeling the weight of possible conflict.
  3. Humanity can see into the future, which is a curse because it brings anxiety. But this awareness can also help prepare for tough times ahead, making it important to take action rather than just waiting.

The Saturday Read: Blasted skylines

The Saturday Read • 459 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Conflict Leadership International relations Human Rights
  1. Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, was killed by Israeli forces, highlighting ongoing violence in Gaza. His death might temporarily limit the threat from Hamas, but deep issues remain unresolved for both sides.
  2. A kibbutz resident expressed that after recent violence, his focus has shifted solely to protecting his own family rather than helping those in Gaza. This shows the intense personal strife and survival mindset amidst conflict.
  3. The region faces a complex situation where even after Sinwar's death, the future remains uncertain. It raises concerns about possible retaliation and the rebuilding of Gaza, which has suffered immense destruction.

A Year of Ukrainian "Collapse" Narratives:

Phillips’s Newsletter • 152 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict International relations Military Media Narratives
  1. Many media stories claimed that Ukraine was about to collapse during the war, painting a very negative picture of their situation.
  2. These repeated negative narratives can be harmful, influencing people's perceptions and possibly decisions regarding support for Ukraine.
  3. Despite the media's alarming predictions, Ukraine has continued to resist and fight back against Russian advances.

Michael Oren: Is Israel About to Strike Iran’s Nuclear Facilities?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 955 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Nuclear policy Geopolitics Middle East
  1. Israel may be considering a military strike on Iran's nuclear sites soon. There are signs that tensions are rising in the region.
  2. The International Atomic Energy Agency has condemned Iran for not keeping its nuclear promises, which has added urgency to the situation.
  3. The U.S. is reacting by evacuating nonessential staff from its embassy in Baghdad and warning its diplomats in Israel to stay put.

One More Dead Palestinian Kid

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1550 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Conflict Human Rights Military Action Social Issues
  1. A two-year-old girl was tragically killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region. It's heartbreaking to see such young lives lost.
  2. The author expresses deep emotional pain and despair regarding the loss of innocent lives, especially children, in conflict situations. These deaths leave a lasting impact on families and communities.
  3. The repetition of such tragedies can feel overwhelming, as if each death adds to an endless cycle of suffering. This ongoing situation calls for more awareness and compassion for those affected.

Special Edition: The War That Could Change the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 825 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Middle East Geopolitics International relations Security
  1. Israel is currently facing attacks from Iran, leading many people to seek shelter. This situation could significantly impact the region and the world.
  2. Historian Niall Ferguson and other experts will provide insights on the conflict, which are important for understanding its historical and political context.
  3. The dynamics of U.S. political support for Israel are changing, with key figures like Donald Trump taking strong positions, which may affect future relations.

How the Iran Strikes Seal Netanyahu’s Legacy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 792 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Geopolitics Conflict Security
  1. Netanyahu views himself as the protector of Israel's security, which has defined his time in office. He believes that Iran poses the biggest threat to Israel, especially with its ambitions for nuclear weapons.
  2. The conflict between Netanyahu and Iranian leader Khamenei symbolizes a larger struggle in the Middle East, focusing on Israel's existence versus Iran's desire to eliminate it.
  3. Netanyahu's political survival has been linked to his tough stance against Iran, allowing him to remain in power despite various crises.

Will Destroying Iran’s Nuclear Program Require a ‘Medieval Battle’?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 519 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Nuclear Issues Conflict Diplomacy Intelligence
  1. Israel might need to launch long air strikes on Iran to destroy its nuclear facilities, especially if the U.S. doesn't help.
  2. In 2018, Israeli spies found a lot of documents that revealed Iran's secret nuclear weapon plans, showing that they were more complicated than thought.
  3. Many undeclared nuclear sites across Iran could be hiding sensitive equipment or materials, making it harder to track their nuclear activities.

The Increase in Ukrainian Casualties

Glenn’s Substack • 1378 implied HN points • 04 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Diplomacy Military Strategy
  1. Ukrainian military losses are rising, which is common as wars reach their final stages. When a side is losing, they often struggle with resources, morale, and communication.
  2. The situation in Ukraine is worsening with fewer troops and equipment. As their frontlines weaken, many soldiers are defecting or surrendering, leading to a chaotic military environment.
  3. NATO faces difficult choices in response to the war. There's growing pressure to either negotiate peace or increase involvement, while the risk of a direct conflict with Russia looms large.

Germany and the EU Abandon Reason and Risk Collapse

Glenn’s Substack • 839 implied HN points • 09 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics Europe Ukraine NATO Diplomacy Conflict
  1. Germany and the EU need to rethink their approach to the Ukraine crisis or they might end up in serious trouble together. Changes are necessary to avoid breaking apart.
  2. Some experts believe NATO made mistakes that helped to spark the Ukraine war and that these mistakes are causing more issues for Europe now.
  3. There's growing concern about political violence and less freedom of speech in Germany. New political movements are also rising, which the current government does not approve of.

The Dangerous Obsession with Territory in a War of Attrition

Glenn’s Substack • 1418 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Diplomacy Military Geopolitics Territorial Issues
  1. In a war of attrition, the goal is to wear down the enemy, not just take land. Taking territory requires a lot of resources and can be costly.
  2. Territorial gains often get celebrated, but they’re not always strategic. Advancing too far can harm supply lines and weaken defenses.
  3. There's pressure in the West to support any gains by Ukraine, which complicates discussions about effective strategies. Sometimes, focusing on PR can overshadow the real military needs.

Fordow meets the B-2

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 26 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Affairs Middle East Conflict Foreign Policy
  1. During a heat wave in Paris, two friends deal with discomfort while waiting for news about repatriation flights from Israel. It's stressful for one of them, who is worried about her family back home.
  2. There was a significant event where an important facility in Iran was reportedly destroyed. This news brought relief to the friends, who were following developments closely.
  3. The situation in Iran is tense, with many people feeling exhausted and afraid. There's a mix of propaganda and fear among the citizens, and the long history of conflict weighs heavily on the current atmosphere.

Meditations On A Six Year-Old Amputee Crawling Through Gaza With The Help Of A Roller Skate

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2421 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights Middle East Military International relations
  1. A six-year-old boy in Gaza, who lost his legs due to violence, uses a roller skate to help him move. His situation highlights the painful realities many children face in conflict zones.
  2. Many children in Gaza now feel that death is imminent, with a significant number wishing for it. This shows the deep emotional and psychological scars caused by ongoing violence.
  3. The author expresses deep sorrow for the plight of children like Mohammad. It’s important to acknowledge the sadness of such situations without trying to put a positive spin on them.

The Saturday Read: A furious year

The Saturday Read • 419 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International relations Geopolitics History
  1. The Middle East is facing ongoing violence and conflict, especially after significant events like the Hamas attack on Israel. Many believe lasting peace will require changes in Iran.
  2. There is no single 'Catholic vote' in American politics; Catholics often have diverse views that don't fit neatly into either party. This means candidates should engage with Catholic voters carefully.
  3. Green Day's album 'American Idiot' had a powerful impact by encouraging youth to oppose George W. Bush. Its fun style helped spread a serious political message.

Assad Is Out, Woke Al-Qaeda Is In

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2686 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Regime Change U.S. foreign policy Geopolitics Conflict
  1. The Syrian government led by Assad is being replaced, likely by groups supported by the U.S. This shows a shift in power dynamics in the region.
  2. Al-Qaeda has been rebranded as a more 'woke' group, with media portraying them in a softer light despite their violent past. This reflects a significant change in how such groups are viewed.
  3. The ongoing U.S. efforts in the area involve a long game strategy, suggesting that while current actions may not yield immediate results, they are part of a larger plan for eventual dominance.

God Save Us

Disaffected Newsletter • 2877 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Civil Rights Social Issues Conflict
  1. Some people are very concerned about the actions and beliefs of those on the left, feeling that they pose a real threat. It’s important to be aware and cautious about who you trust among friends and family.
  2. There is a belief that the situation could escalate to serious conflict, possibly a civil war, and some are preparing to defend themselves. Being ready is viewed as a priority by some.
  3. It’s suggested to put distance between yourself and those who hold opposing views, as they might not have your best interests at heart. Staying safe means creating boundaries with certain people.

Let Yourself Be Shattered By Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2086 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights International relations Middle East War Crimes
  1. People often care more for pets than for suffering children in places like Gaza. This shows a disconnect with real human suffering while prioritizing our comforts.
  2. Being 'shattered' or deeply affected by tragic events can lead to personal growth. It helps us reconnect with our feelings and strengthens our human empathy.
  3. True beauty and understanding can emerge from heartbreak. Experiencing pain can clear our vision and help us appreciate life and nature in a deeper way.

Netanyahu Hilariously Claims Israel Doesn't Seek To Intervene In Syria's Affairs

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2039 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Conflict Regime Change Geopolitics
  1. Israel has been heavily involved in Syria, claiming it won't interfere while bombing the country and occupying parts of it. This seems contradictory and raises eyebrows.
  2. Syria is now opening up its economy, which could lead to outside influences taking advantage of its situation. This is often called disaster capitalism.
  3. There's a lot of anger towards wealthy elites as economic inequality rises. This could lead to serious social unrest if people feel they have no other options for change.

How to understand the politics of Israel and Palestine?

Robert Reich • 16254 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Israel Palestine Conflict History Education
  1. Organizing for difficult subjects in universities is essential to foster open dialogue and avoid polarization.
  2. Collaborative teaching with diverse perspectives can create a more enriching and open-minded learning environment for students.
  3. Approaching the conflict between Israel and Palestine with a sense of tragedy can help students understand the complexity and motivations behind the narratives of both sides.

Point of No Return in Middle East & Ukraine

Glenn’s Substack • 519 implied HN points • 30 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Diplomacy Conflict International relations Military Affairs
  1. Both Israel and Ukraine are in conflicts they can't win and are escalating their actions instead of seeking peace. This makes the situation more dangerous.
  2. The countries are trying to involve the US more deeply in their wars, hoping that American support will change their fortunes.
  3. There is a lack of serious discussions or diplomatic efforts to address the escalating tensions, which could lead to a wider conflict.

Western leftists have lost the plot

Noahpinion • 67295 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International Ideology Leaders Conflict
  1. Western leftists have shown support for violent actions that are considered inhumane, such as massacres.
  2. The Western leftist movement's support for violent actions has led to a lack of moral consistency and compassion.
  3. The Palestinian cause has become central to the Western leftist movement, but recent events have caused division and moral disgust.