The hottest Conflict Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

The Intensity Dial: Knowing When to Escalate and When to Back Off

The Caring Techie Newsletter • 12 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
💼 Business Conflict
  1. Treat communication like an intensity dial — shift between gentle support and direct urgency depending on the situation instead of always being soft or always being blunt.
  2. Being too soft lets problems fester and breeds passive-aggressive resentments, while being too intense too early embarrasses people and shuts down trust.
  3. Escalate deliberately in small steps: make the impact and stakes clear, give the other person a fair chance to fix things, and set deadlines or escalation paths using simple diagnostic questions to choose the right level.

Occupied Melilla, Occupied Palestine

Kevin’s Newsletter • 373 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The difference between peaceful Melilla and blood-soaked Palestine is stark due to varying attitudes towards occupation and the treatment of locals.
  2. Spain's relatively reasonable and humane approach to their occupation of Melilla contrasts with the fanatical and dehumanizing actions of the Zionists in Palestine.
  3. Generosity and recognition of the humanity of others in Melilla, including facilitating trade and granting citizenship, contribute to a more harmonious coexistence compared to the violence and oppression in Palestine.

Ma Ying-jeou on Sanae Takaichi's recent remarks on Taiwan

Pekingnology • 64 implied HN points • 15 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The remarks made by the new Japanese Prime Minister about Taiwan could lead to serious military concerns. This has upset China and stirred tensions between Japan and China.
  2. Japan's recent stance could remind people of its past militarism, which is a sensitive topic, especially for China. Making comments about military actions in Taiwan might not be wise and can cause more trouble.
  3. The concept of collective self-defense is complicated and usually requires discussions with the U.S. before any actions are taken. Some believe the Prime Minister's comments did not follow this important process.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

I Don't Need Guns I Need Fire Extinguishers

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1387 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
📰 News Conflict
  1. The author creatively uses the analogy of fire extinguishers to call for solutions to global crises, emphasizing the need for healing and peace over violence.
  2. There is a critique of the military-industrial complex and the prioritization of weapons over humanitarian aid and environmental protection.
  3. The text advocates for prioritizing efforts to restore a healthy planet for future generations, highlighting the urgency of addressing current global challenges.

Syria after Assad

In My Tribe • 577 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Syria isn't ready for democracy yet. The country lacks the necessary conditions and institutions to support a democratic system.
  2. After Assad's fall, the rebel groups may struggle to unite due to their different ethnic and political backgrounds. Their divisions could lead to conflict among themselves.
  3. Syria has significant strategic importance to neighboring countries like Turkey, Iran, and Israel. These powers may influence Syria's future to protect their own interests.

YOUR COUNTRY NEEDS YOU!

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 197 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The post discusses the potential for a call-up to the army in the event of a war with Russia, with emphasis on the controversial and potentially insincere motives behind such actions.
  2. It highlights the concept of nations becoming irrelevant and being manipulated by supranational interests like central banks and arms manufacturers.
  3. The post advocates against getting involved in futile and unwinnable conflicts, criticizes warmongering attitudes, and calls for a revolution against forced financial servitude and military involvement.

Gigaheroes

Trantor Publishing • 219 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
⚔ Fiction Conflict
  1. The protagonist in the story discovers newfound superhuman abilities allowing him to defy normal human limitations.
  2. The narrative delves into the stark contrast between the privileged and the less fortunate, highlighting themes of power, freedom, and inequality.
  3. The character faces escalating conflicts and confrontations, leading to a pivotal moment where he realizes his potential impact on the world and his desire for connection.

The Western Way of Genocide

The Chris Hedges Report • 453 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with no clean water or food, leading to widespread sickness and suffering among its population.
  2. The ongoing violence and destruction in Gaza are seen as part of a larger strategy to control resources and land, with little support from international allies to stop it.
  3. Historical patterns of genocide and oppression are highlighted, stressing that current actions are not unique, but rather resemble past atrocities committed by powerful nations against marginalized groups.

Progressive realism and Perfidious Albion

Wrong Side of History • 584 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Armenia is caught in a tough spot geopolitically, needing support from larger powers such as Iran, Turkey, and Russia but often feeling abandoned. This ongoing struggle shapes their national identity and foreign relations.
  2. Azerbaijan has a strong military backed by Turkey, leaving Armenia feeling vulnerable and lacking allies. Many Armenians fear another attack from Azerbaijan in the near future.
  3. Britain's foreign policy appears to neglect Armenia's history and needs, as seen in recent comments from officials that seem to favor Azerbaijan. This raises concerns about human rights and ethical responsibilities in international relations.

TL;DRussia Weekend Roundup

TL;DRussia • 353 implied HN points • 25 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The author uses their newsletter as a form of therapy to deal with anxiety and discomfort.
  2. The author reflects on the positive response to their Twitter threads and news analysis, while also considering potential biases in their thinking.
  3. The author recommends reading investigative reports on Russian propaganda, military-industrial control, and Western companies' involvement in Russia to understand the political landscape better.

On conflict and peacebuilding in African states

An Africanist Perspective • 376 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Preventing conflicts in African states involves more than just promoting democracy and good governance; a deeper understanding of complex factors like identity, power dynamics, and economic incentives is crucial.
  2. African states' weakness and susceptibility to conflicts stem from historical and structural factors, like the maintenance of colonial borders and lack of incentives for strong state-building.
  3. To reduce conflict likelihood, African states should focus on improving rural governance, addressing international dimensions, localizing conflicts, and avoiding the use of mercenaries.

Top Links 651 Is China Trump-proof? The global growth of the welfare state. Disintegrating Sudan & "Broadcasting the Barricades".

Chartbook • 386 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. China may be able to withstand challenges posed by the U.S., but the implications are worth exploring.
  2. There is a noticeable trend of more countries enhancing their welfare systems around the world.
  3. The situation in Sudan is deteriorating, highlighting the importance of public awareness and activism.

Ukraine Conflict Monitor - 5 June - 11 June 2023 (Weekly update)

Ukraine Conflict Monitor • 334 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Ukrainians launched a counteroffensive spanning Zaporizhihia and Donetsk Oblasts, liberating over 60 sq km of territory
  2. Russian attacks in Kharkiv and Luhansk Oblasts had no frontline changes; Ukrainian counterattacks were limited but successful
  3. Challenges faced by Ukrainians in terms of losses, air defense capabilities, and the need to maintain momentum in the ongoing counteroffensive

How would anarchist societies protect themselves?

The Novelleist • 553 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Conflict
  1. Anarchist societies might struggle with conflict and violence without a police force or official laws, as history shows many groups resolved issues through harsh means.
  2. The idea of countries without states not going to war seems optimistic; history shows that powerful groups have often conquered more peaceful societies.
  3. It's unclear how communities could operate without structured work and schools while still getting things done, and more examples are needed to understand how this could work in practice.

Surprised ?

Pieter’s Newsletter • 199 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Iran's engagement with the US signifies escalating tensions and the need for a measured response.
  2. UN's history of corruption and collaboration with Hamas sheds light on the need for reform.
  3. Global anti-Israel sentiment has deep roots and poses ongoing challenges for peace.

Gaza

De Pony Sum • 314 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. View the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a long-term issue of power dynamics, not just current events.
  2. Consider all preventable deaths, not just the obvious ones, in evaluating the situation.
  3. Focus on present suffering and power dynamics rather than historical arguments over indigenous status.

Putin's Waterloo

Diane Francis • 1019 implied HN points • 12 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Ukraine is gaining ground against Russia, but it's important not to rush to conclusions about a quick victory. Support from the U.S. and Europe has helped Ukraine push back Russian forces.
  2. The European Union is more united than ever, strongly supporting Ukraine and working to cut off dependence on Russian energy. They're also planning a major reconstruction of Ukraine after the war.
  3. Putin's focus is shifting towards Asia, but that's not helping Russia's situation. Many countries and even Russian communities in other nations are not supporting his actions in Ukraine.

Fool Me Twice

Séamus Malekafzali • 277 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The post-9/11 and Iraq War era tactics are being used in Israel's war in Gaza, with diminishing returns.
  2. Israel and the US are justifying the Gaza conflict using historical comparisons like the Third Reich and the War on Terror.
  3. The playbook of spreading false information and preparing for war has been seen before, causing distrust and cynicism.

CIA and NATO are waging sabotage attacks inside Russia

Geopolitical Economy Report • 418 implied HN points • 01 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The CIA, with support from a European NATO ally, is conducting sabotage attacks within Russia, including attacks on infrastructure like railways, bridges, and military facilities.
  2. Evidence suggests the CIA has been involved in a proxy war in Ukraine, providing training and military support to Ukrainian forces since 2015.
  3. There's a risk of the proxy war escalating into a direct conflict between the US and Russia, with potential for serious consequences.

They Tortured Him for Years. Now They Rule Syria.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 454 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The new rulers of Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have a history of violence and were once the captors of a journalist who endured severe torture at their hands.
  2. The group claims to have changed for the better and promises not to persecute anyone, but many are skeptical about their true intentions.
  3. Despite the regime's fall being celebrated by many, there are concerns about the brutal tactics of the rebel forces that now hold power.

Ukraine's Superiority

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 01 Dec 22
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Ukraine struggled a lot during World War II and played a huge role in fighting against Hitler, but this is often ignored by Russia. This history shows how strong and resilient Ukrainians are.
  2. Despite being outnumbered, Ukraine has shown strong strategic abilities in defending against Russia. Their quick adaptations helped them gain the support of NATO and other allies.
  3. Even with tough conditions, Ukrainians remain determined and united, wanting to achieve victory. Their focus is on rebuilding and joining the European Union, showing their hope for the future.

Don't Equate The Violence Of The Oppressor With The Violence Of The Oppressed

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1010 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Don't equate the violence of the oppressor with the violence of the oppressed. The oppressor is the ultimate source of violence from both sides.
  2. The oppressor has moral responsibility for both their violence and the violence of the oppressed. Ending oppression will lead to a cessation of violence.
  3. The focus should be on demanding the oppressor to stop being violent and oppressive, as they are the cause of the violence. The violence of the oppressor is a cause, while the violence of the oppressed is an effect.

"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 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.

Ukraine Conflict Monitor - 3 April – 9 April 2023 (Weekly update)

Ukraine Conflict Monitor • 275 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. Frontline in Ukraine remained mostly static last week with some tactical gains by Russians in certain areas and repelled attacks in others.
  2. Russian offensive potential in Bakhmut did not peak last week, while ground attacks near Avdiivka were pushed back.
  3. Belarusian Armed Forces conducting readiness checks and training, with no major changes seen in their military posture.

Is Somalia turning the corner?

An Africanist Perspective • 296 implied HN points • 03 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. There is cause for cautious optimism in Somalia as book fairs in Mogadishu, a property boom, weakening of Al-Shabaab, and regional cooperation signal positive changes.
  2. Somalia has a complex history of conflicts and irredentist desires that have contributed to its state of instability since the 1970s.
  3. Ethiopia and Kenya have historically had conflicting interests in Somalia, aiming for a weak central government to serve their own security interests despite the need for peace and stability in the region.

Two Months

Pieter’s Newsletter • 219 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The prediction of unspeakable sexual violence in a major news event.
  2. Hostages being considered collateral damage in a conflict scenario.
  3. The belief that a Palestinian state in Gaza is no longer viable due to recent events and political implications.

Would It Be Over?

Points And Figures • 932 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The bombing of German cities during WWII had a significant impact on post-war Germany, changing behaviors and diminishing the desire for another war.
  2. A large majority of Palestinians desire the erasure of Israel from the international map, similar to the sentiment among German citizens under Hitler in the 1940s.
  3. Complete and total war on terrorist organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah is seen as necessary for the peace of Israel and the world, rather than proposing humanitarian aid or two-state solutions.

Organized Oblivion

The Chris Hedges Report • 430 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict
  1. The people of Gaza are facing destruction and will struggle to preserve their memories, similar to survivors of past genocides. They will create memoirs, maps, and stories to keep their history alive.
  2. Forgetfulness can lead to the loss of identity and culture, especially after traumatic events like genocide. Remembering the past is essential to understand who we are and protect our heritage.
  3. The erasure of places and people, like the fate of the Armenian community, shows the harsh reality of genocide. We must remember and fight against oblivion to honor those who suffered and to keep their stories alive.