The hottest Conflict Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

A Perfect Storm of Unpreparedness

CDR Salamander • 923 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Anticipation of long-term war scenarios is crucial for military preparedness.
  2. Ensuring fundamental resources like artillery ammunition are properly planned for is essential.
  3. The need for hard questions and preparation for worst-case scenarios is emphasized.

The Air In Gaza Smells Like Corpses

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1606 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Gaza has a strong smell of death from the destruction and loss of life happening there. This image is powerful and haunting.
  2. The suffering in Gaza is connected to the wider state of the world, where we cannot escape the pain and consequences of war.
  3. Even as we try to move on in our daily lives, the horrors happening in places like Gaza stick with us, shaping our thoughts and feelings.

The Biggest Under-Reported Story of 2025

Phillips’s Newsletter • 137 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. China is increasing its support for Russia in the war, which could significantly impact the situation in Ukraine.
  2. Unlike Russia, China has the vast resources to supply weapons and support, making a prolonged conflict more likely.
  3. Under Donald Trump's presidency, US support for Ukraine has decreased, allowing China to step up its backing for Russia.

The Folly of A War With Iran

The Chris Hedges Report • 548 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics 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.

This Has to Stop Now

Discourse Blog • 845 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. There is a call for one side to end the conflict and bring a ceasefire.
  2. Forensic evidence hints at the cause of a tragic incident, yet all parties have a history of deceit.
  3. One party holds the power to swiftly stop the loss of innocent lives in the conflict.
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Protopia and The Future of Heterodoxy

The Bigger Picture • 1997 implied HN points • 25 Nov 22
📖 Philosophy Conflict
  1. Difficult conversations are necessary and can lead to new ways of thinking and understanding.
  2. The concept of Protopia suggests gradual improvement rather than aiming for perfection or utopia.
  3. Acknowledging and working with polarisation rather than trying to overcome it can lead to meaningful growth and understanding.

Anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and the Strip Between

Pen>Sword • 658 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The ongoing violence in Gaza has reshaped the consumption and dissemination of mass death, especially on digital platforms like social media.
  2. Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia are closely linked forms of bigotry rooted in white supremacy, with distinct but similarly inferior stereotypes about Jews and Muslims.
  3. The political cooption of anti-Semitism and the colonial tenets of Zionism undermine genuine reckonings with these forms of bigotry, perpetuating violence and hindering equality.

Israel: A Trap and No Endgame

Diane Francis • 799 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Israel is facing a complicated situation with no clear end goal, especially regarding the future of Gaza. The military actions may not solve the underlying issues and could make things worse for everyone involved.
  2. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza could lead to more terrorism and instability in the region if not properly addressed. There needs to be a solid plan for who will govern Gaza after Israel's military actions.
  3. The international community should push for negotiations that address the Palestinian issue. It's important for everyone in the region, including Arab states and Israel, to find a peaceful solution together.

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

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 519 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  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.

Inside Assad’s ‘Human Slaughterhouse.’ Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1298 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The fall of Assad's regime in Syria marks a major change in the country's political landscape. Many people are unsettled about what this means for safety and future leadership.
  2. Syria's Christians are particularly worried about their safety and what might happen next now that Assad is gone. There are fears that the new leaders might not protect them.
  3. The harsh reality of Assad's regime is becoming clearer as people look back on the horrors of his rule. Many are seeking answers about missing loved ones and want to confront the legacy of violence in places like Sednaya prison.

What Happens If Iran’s Regime Collapses?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 496 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics 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.

The Prigozhin Puzzle

Diane Francis • 839 implied HN points • 28 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Yevgeny Prigozhin's death raises many questions. People are wondering if it was an accident or if he was murdered, and what this means for the future of Russia and the Wagner Group.
  2. The U.S. is starting to train Ukrainian pilots, showing a shift in support for Ukraine against Russia. This could help Ukraine strengthen its military position.
  3. Prigozhin's demise could lead to more instability in Russia. Without his presence, the country might see further divisions among its leaders and military, speeding up its economic problems.

Facebook censors journalist Seymour Hersh's report on Nord Stream pipeline attack

Geopolitical Economy Report • 837 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Facebook censored a report by journalist Seymour Hersh on the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage, instead directing users to a website funded by a NATO member state, Norway.
  2. The US government and media failed to offer an alternative explanation to Hersh's report on the attacks, despite attempting to undermine his credibility.
  3. Western governments, not just Facebook, have censored Russian and Iranian media outlets, such as RT and Sputnik, as well as seizing the domain of Iran's Press TV.

Russia will collapse

Diane Francis • 1139 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Russia is facing a financial crisis and military decline, which could lead to its collapse, similar to the Soviet Union's breakup in 1991.
  2. Various regions in Russia are seeking more independence or outright separation, especially those closer to Europe, making a breakup seem increasingly likely.
  3. If Russia does break apart, it could create numerous new nations, but the West needs to prepare for this possibility and support those regions in establishing their independence.

Putin's Amigo

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, is a strong ally of Putin and has worsened his country's economy despite its oil wealth.
  2. Maduro has allowed Russian companies and military groups to operate in Venezuela, contributing to his regime's security and resource extraction.
  3. Recently, Maduro claimed land in Guyana and threatened invasion, which is seen as a distraction from his own economic issues and has raised tensions in the region.

WATCH: This Muslim Israeli Woman Is the Hope of the Middle East

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3111 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Lucy Aharish is the first Arab Muslim news presenter on mainstream, Hebrew-language Israeli television.
  2. She is an iconoclast who challenges societal norms by being an Arab, a proud Israeli, and a Muslim married to a Jew.
  3. Lucy Aharish has been vocal in her criticism of far-right voices, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Arab violence, emphasizing unity between Israelis and Arabs.

America First?

John’s Substack • 12 implied HN points • 17 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Negotiations to end the wars in Ukraine and Iran are mostly performative because the parties’ goals are far apart and meaningful compromise looks unlikely.
  2. The US is relying on inexperienced, partisan private figures rather than seasoned diplomats to run major foreign-policy talks, a sharp contrast with how other great powers handle diplomacy.
  3. Israel and its lobby are exerting strong pressure for US action against Iran despite Iran not posing a clear threat and broad international opposition, highlighting serious ineptitude in US policymaking.

‘LIKE GIVING A DROWNING PERSON A BREATH OF AIR’

Seymour Hersh • 41 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Gaza continues to suffer intense bombing and widespread destruction, causing massive deaths, injuries, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands into makeshift, often flooded tents.
  2. The humanitarian situation is dire: food and basic services are scarce or unaffordable, malnutrition remains widespread, and short bursts of aid cannot reverse long-term starvation and damage to health.
  3. Despite everything, many Palestinians are trying to survive and rebuild by staying in place and even preparing to plant crops, but harsh winter conditions and lack of infrastructure make recovery extremely difficult.

Israel's Angst

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 16 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Both Israelis and Palestinians face difficult lives under their governments. Many people in both groups are unhappy with their leaders, and they want a change to find a peaceful solution.
  2. The ongoing conflict is causing a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Many innocent civilians are suffering due to the violence and harsh conditions imposed by the war.
  3. There is a pressing need for a two-state solution and international cooperation to reduce tensions. Without action to promote peace, the cycles of violence will continue to harm both communities.

The Free Press in Israel: A Special Limited Series

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2796 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The decision to go to a place of conflict can be a mix of practical concerns and emotional ties, but the desire to witness and understand can be a driving force.
  2. Meeting people face-to-face and being on the ground for reporting provides a depth and understanding that remote communication cannot match.
  3. Experiencing a war-torn region firsthand brings a deeper perspective on the impact and realities faced by those living in conflict zones.

Why Palestine Can't Deliver Peace

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 3096 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Most Palestinians hold extreme views on the conflict with Israel, hindering the possibility of peace.
  2. For peace to be achievable, Palestinian society needs to be less hostile towards Jews and able to prevent extremists from derailing negotiations.
  3. Israel must be confident in the stability of a new Palestinian state and its ability to address internal opposition to ensure lasting peace.

Biden bombs Yemen so Israel can bomb Gaza

Speaking Security • 393 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Biden is bombing Yemen in response to attacks by the Houthi movement disrupting global shipping.
  2. An easy solution to the crisis would be for Biden to end Israel's military offensive with a single phone call.
  3. The ongoing bombings in Yemen by the US-backed coalition and Biden's actions are deemed cruel and ineffective.

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 Conflict
  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.

Nagorno-Karabakh update: September 21 2023

Foreign Exchanges • 727 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. A new status quo in the south Caucasus region is emerging following recent events in Nagorno-Karabakh.
  2. A ceasefire has been declared between Azerbaijan and Karabakh, with Karabakh authorities agreeing to disarm their defense forces and remove Armenian military forces.
  3. Concerns about potential ethnic cleansing and the implications for Armenia's diplomatic relationships are key issues arising from the situation.

Don't Intervene in Yemen

Eunomia • 432 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Attacking the Houthis in Yemen would be a risky and counterproductive move.
  2. Supporting the Yemeni government may not be a wise decision due to its lack of legitimacy and internal divisions.
  3. The focus should be on ending the war in Gaza and not escalating conflicts in Yemen.

What Ukraine Is Teaching Worcester, Massachusetts

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 278 implied HN points • 18 Aug 25
🌐 International Conflict
  1. U.S. cities like Worcester are learning disaster relief strategies from Kherson, Ukraine, instead of just providing aid. This reverse exchange highlights valuable lessons in emergency management.
  2. The partnership between Kherson and Worcester has expanded beyond just emergency relief. They've started sharing knowledge in areas like healthcare and veteran services.
  3. Despite Kherson being in a war zone, the collaboration shows how cities can support each other creatively. Even in tough conditions, they find ways to share impactful solutions.

Russian Revisionism

Diane Francis • 699 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Russia has a long history of spreading misinformation to hide the truth about its actions and policies. This dishonesty is a key part of its government strategy.
  2. Two major false narratives are currently promoted by Russia: one is that it is a great empire deserving of pride, and the other is that Ukraine is not a real country invaded by Russia for noble reasons.
  3. Disinformation tactics include tailoring messages to different groups and undermining Ukraine's efforts, showing how Russia manipulates information to divert blame and distract from its own wrongdoings.

Shared Humanity

Nader's Thoughts • 628 implied HN points • 22 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Both Israelis and Palestinians deserve peace and human rights.
  2. Human rights are applied selectively based on borders, races, ethnicities, and religions.
  3. People have the right to stand up for themselves and fight for what's theirs.

Gaza: Where Is Hezbollah?

Kevin’s Newsletter • 589 implied HN points • 02 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The Axis of Resistance, led by Hezbollah and others, is monitoring the situation in Gaza closely.
  2. Hezbollah is maintaining its presence and readiness on the Lebanese border, influencing and supporting the Palestinian Resistance in Gaza.
  3. Hezbollah's ultimate goal is the liberation of Palestine, and decisions are strategically planned to achieve this in the most effective way.

Russia's Global Genocide

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Putin's war in Ukraine is described as a genocide that threatens food supplies for millions around the world. His actions have severely impacted agriculture in Ukraine, which is known as the 'breadbasket' of Europe.
  2. Landmines and destruction from the war have made farming extremely dangerous and led to a significant drop in crop yields. Experts say it will take years to repair the damage and restore Ukraine's agricultural productivity.
  3. The ongoing conflict is causing a global food crisis, with many people facing hunger and food insecurity. Countries, especially in Africa, are feeling the effects, as they rely heavily on grain exports from Ukraine.

Russia Collapses

Diane Francis • 1199 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Many Russians are living in poverty due to the long-lasting war and its effects on the economy. People are struggling with basic needs like heat, water, and jobs.
  2. Putin is not being truthful about the state of the Russian economy. Western sanctions are hurting it badly, and many businesses have shut down as capital is leaving the country.
  3. Russia's energy trade is in trouble because of price caps and Europe moving away from Russian oil and gas. This is leading to a significant drop in state revenues and economic decline.

Chartbook 258 War, peace and the return of history in 2023

Chartbook • 2532 implied HN points • 01 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. In 2023, there was a surge in violence globally, with factors like weak state power and new rivalries fueling conflicts.
  2. Poor-country conflicts are influenced by global forces, but the impact on the larger picture is limited.
  3. The world is facing a historical shift with conflicts like the Israel-Palestine dispute challenging traditional models of geopolitical alignment.

Bearing Witness to Gaza (audio dispatch 14)

The Joyous Struggle • 355 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. When discussing complex issues like the situation in Israel and Gaza, it's important to move beyond simplistic notions of 'goodies and baddies' and approach conversations from a more mature and nuanced perspective.
  2. Understanding different perspectives and historical contexts is crucial in comprehending complex conflicts like the one in Israel and Gaza, and it can help in fostering empathy and effective communication.
  3. Engaging in continual learning, having epistemic humility, and staying politically engaged are essential for the health of open societies and for citizens to understand complex global issues like the situation in Gaza and The Hague.

The Stone Rejected By the Builders

Gideon's Substack • 9 implied HN points • 17 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Arab parties now hold the balance of power and can be the deciding votes for any government that wants to exclude the far right. Without their participation, centrist and left blocs often can’t reach a majority.
  2. Including Arab parties is politically risky because many Jewish voters distrust Palestinian representatives after recent violence and security failures, and embracing them could provoke a backlash. Still, refusing to engage them makes it much harder to dislodge the extreme right and risks cementing harmful policies.
  3. Genuine political integration of Palestinian citizens is both a democratic necessity and the most realistic path toward resolving the wider conflict. Their non‑Zionist identity shouldn’t disqualify them, because inclusion would model coexistence and block exclusionary visions.

Israel's Hidden War -- Redux

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conflict
  1. There's a big divide in Israeli society between secular and religious people. This divide is causing serious issues that could lead to more conflict.
  2. The current government in Israel, guided by radical religious groups, has made decisions that have harmed the safety of its people, especially along the Gaza border.
  3. Education differences also play a role in this divide. Secular Israelis often receive a broader education, while religious Israelis focus more on scripture.