The Middle East War and the challenge of restoring stability

The Middle East war has become a crisis with humanitarian, economic, diplomatic, and legal effects across the region and the world. Over a million civilians are displaced, and oil prices rose by more than 15% in the first month. Shipping disruptions have slowed the movement of goods, affecting global food and energy supplies.

In light of this, it is important to look at the issue with care and equity. The conflict involves real security threats, long-standing historical disputes, different legal viewpoints, and significant civilian suffering. For example, ongoing territorial claims over Jerusalem and other disputed areas, unsettled questions about Palestinian statehood, and the breakdown of earlier peace efforts like the Oslo Accords all add to current tensions. Any thoughtful discussion should refrain from oversimplifying the situation. This war is not only about fighting; it also challenges whether diplomacy and international law can still help countries and societies in crisis.

A Regional Conflict With Global Consequences

The war is no longer a local issue, affecting not just Gaza and Israel but a region marked by political rivalry and tension. This raises the risk of further conflict and highlights the need for stability.

The global impact is significant—energy markets, shipping, food supplies, and investor confidence all react to instability in the Middle East. Problems in one area quickly affect others in our connected world.

The Humanitarian Dimension Must Remain Central

Regardless of legal or political debates, the humanitarian impact must stay central to the conversation. Civilians have suffered deeply. Death, displacement, destroyed infrastructure, disrupted health care, and a decline in daily life now define the conflict. (Ali et al., 2025)

The humanitarian cost drives global concern. Long-term regional stability relies on prioritizing civilian protection, rebuilding, and social recovery.

Economic Damage Extends Far Beyond the Battlefield

The economic impact is immediate and long-term, disrupting jobs, production, infrastructure, education, and finances. Recovery in the worst-hit areas requires rebuilding institutions, services, and trust.

The global effects are also serious. Conflict in the Middle East often disrupts shipping, increases transport costs, affects energy prices, and impacts insurance markets. These problems spread far beyond the region, especially harming countries that are already struggling. (Bluedorn & Koranchelian, 2023) War creates layers of instability: first for those directly affected, then for neighboring countries, and finally for the world economy.

Therefore, making the economy a focus is essential. Key recommendations include: 1) coordinating regional investments, 2) prioritizing the restoration of critical infrastructure, and 3) supporting employment and entrepreneurship initiatives. Implementing these measures alongside de-escalation is crucial for long-term peace.

Diplomacy Has Been Tested, but It Remains Indispensable

The war has revealed both the limits and the importance of diplomacy. Attempts at ceasefires, humanitarian talks, mediation, and efforts to prevent wider conflict have all depended on diplomacy, even if the results have sometimes been limited or fragile.

During violence, diplomacy may seem slow or frustrating, but it is essential for stability. Military action brings quick changes, while diplomacy addresses deeper problems and enables negotiation, accountability, and peaceful coexistence. Both experienced and younger diplomats strengthen responsiveness to crises.

International Law Provides a Framework, but Its Application Remains Contested

One of the central questions raised by the war is whether the actors involved have a valid legal justification for their actions under international law. Sometimes, states claim the right of self-defense under the UN Charter. This right is recognized in international law and applies in the event of an armed attack. International humanitarian law continues to apply during armed conflict. This includes the principles of distinction, proportionality, military necessity, precautions in attack, and the protection of civilians. Humanitarian access and the protection of essential civilian infrastructure also remain critical legal concerns.

The legal debate concerns not only whether force is justified, but also whether parties follow the rules of war. This is where much of the international debate and disagreement lies.

Legal Responsibility Applies to All Parties

A fair assessment must recognize that international law applies to all states and armed groups. Attacks on civilians, hostage-taking, and indiscriminate violence are prohibited. States are also legally limited in their responses. Even in the face of security threats, they must comply with humanitarian law.

To build trust, all sides should publicly commit to applying international law fairly and transparently. Recommendations include: 1) international systems must monitor and enforce compliance regardless of political affiliation, and 2) leaders should actively support impartial enforcement through political and legal measures.

The Deeper Issue Is the Need for a Credible Political Horizon

While military and legal issues matter, the main challenge is political. Without real solutions, peace will not last. Issues of security, territory, governance, recognition, self-determination, and regional influence remain unresolved.

To achieve lasting stability, all sides should immediately begin broad, inclusive political talks that address root causes and provide clear security guarantees. Recommendations are: 1) supporting open dialogue, 2) ensuring fair and lawful governance, and 3) setting measurable milestones for progress as necessary first steps.

The Future Will Depend on Diplomatic Renewal

To rebuild trust in diplomacy, it is important to strengthen institutions, support diplomats’ professional growth, and set up ways to resolve disagreements constructively. Recommendations include: 1) creating regional training academies for diplomats focused on negotiation, mediation, and crisis management; 2) establishing a permanent Middle East Dialogue Platform to keep communication open and reduce tensions; and 3) introducing joint conflict-prevention exercises or cross-border internships for young diplomats to foster collaboration. Building these skills and systems can help prevent ongoing conflict and support stronger diplomatic engagement.

Diplomats are crucial. The future depends on strong diplomatic skills—experience supports decision-making, and younger diplomats introduce new perspectives.

If the connection between generations grows stronger, diplomacy can become more effective, flexible, and better able to handle today’s crises. In a time of division and mistrust, this continuity in diplomacy could be one of the most valuable ways to support international stability.

In sum, the region’s current crisis offers hard lessons. Escalation brings suffering and instability, but it also underscores the indispensable role of diplomacy in building lasting stability for the Middle East and beyond.

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