An insecure world

War has never brought peace or welfare to humanity. It only causes destruction of resources and loss of lives. Despite knowing this, individuals, nations, and governments continue to engage in conflicts. Sometimes wars are fought to protect territory, create new nations or borders, establish dominance, expand empires, or seize resources.

At present, conflicts are ongoing in various parts of the world, including Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine, and tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. In efforts to counter the United States, Iran has carried out repeated attacks targeting U.S. military bases and installations in Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, and Qatar. In these exchanges, both sides have used missiles, drones, and even nuclear-capable weapons.

On February 28 of this year, the United States and Israel jointly launched attacks on Iran. For a long time, the U.S., Israel, and their allies had expressed concern over Iran's nuclear program, urging it to halt or withdraw from it. However, Iran ignored these concerns and instead continued strengthening its nuclear capabilities. Iran's objective was to increase its influence and establish dominance in the Middle East.

Compared to the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Lebanon conflicts, the confrontation involving Iran, Israel, and the United States has had a far greater impact on global politics, the economy, and human life. Its effects have spread across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Additionally, civil wars and conflicts are ongoing in Sudan, Afghanistan, Yemen, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Myanmar. There are also rising tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, China and Taiwan over the South China Sea, North and South Korea, and Armenia and Azerbaijan. These conflicts are severely affecting global politics and the world economy.

The conflict involving Iran did not begin suddenly. It stems from long-standing tensions, particularly after the collapse of the 2015 nuclear agreement. In the initial attacks, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed. In retaliation, Iran targeted U.S. bases and oil facilities in different countries, drawing more nations in the Middle East into the conflict. Thousands of people have been killed, and many cities and military installations have been destroyed. Air travel and international transportation have been disrupted. In such a volatile situation, arms stockpiles and weapons sales are increasing worldwide. A recent report by an international news agency revealed alarming data: global military expenditure reached a record high in 2025, totaling approximately $2.9 trillion, marking the eleventh consecutive year of growth.

The United States, China, and Russia are the top three military spenders, accounting for more than half of global expenditure-about $1.48 trillion combined. Overall military spending increased by 2.9% in 2025 compared to the previous year. Although U.S. spending slightly decreased by 7.5% due to delays in military aid to Ukraine, this decline is expected to be temporary. The U.S. has already approved a defense budget exceeding $1 trillion for 2026, with further increases likely in 2027.

Europe has seen the largest increase in military spending, rising by 14% to $864 billion due to the Russia-Ukraine war. Countries like Germany and Spain have significantly increased their defense budgets. Meanwhile, both Russia and Ukraine have also raised their military expenditures due to ongoing conflict.

In Asia and Oceania, military spending has increased by 8.5%, reaching $681 billion, largely driven by China's growing military power. This has prompted neighboring countries such as Japan and Taiwan to increase their defense budgets as well.

These trends clearly indicate that the world is becoming more insecure. As a result, powerful nations are increasing their weapons stockpiles. However, this arms buildup threatens global peace. Instead of investing in weapons, nations should allocate resources to improving the living standards of the poor, education, healthcare, sanitation, and overall human welfare.