THE AGONIZING IMPACT OF WAR ON HUMANITY
By Olusegun HOSEA
Introduction
Life is full of ups and downs, struggles and challenges. Those who possess the endurance and resilience to withstand the storms of human-made chaos are likely to survive the catastrophes brought upon the earth by mankind. In view of this, Olusegun HOSEA critically examines the agonizing impact of war on humanity in this write-up.
The Background of a Peaceful Environment
A peaceful environment is one where everyone coexists harmoniously without harsh words or hate speech that may cause conflict or calamity among the people living there. People establish trust among themselves without any form of suspicion or misconduct. This type of environment accommodates everyone regardless of race or colour. The people live together peacefully and trust one another in different aspects of life.
Such an ideal environment is what everyone desires to live in—an environment free from problems and insecurity for children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly. It is a place where everyone goes about their normal activities without fear or molestation. This wonderful world is what the Creator gave humanity at the beginning of existence. However, as the population continued to increase and wisdom and technology advanced, problems gradually began to arise. The peace that was initially established started facing diverse challenges from humanity itself, while various factors began to hinder the peaceful environment created at the dawn of the world.
Factors Hindering Peace in Society
The whole earth was created by the Ruler of Heaven and Earth for humanity to inhabit and serve their Creator with their lives, souls, bodies, and spirits. Human beings were also expected to use their talents to edify humanity and the world at large, not to confront one another with weapons of destruction. The talents given to mankind are meant to inspire innovations that will benefit all sectors serving humanity and improve the comfort of human existence across the globe.
However, when peace is destroyed by human beings through the weapons they themselves have fabricated, it is not surprising that the consequences of war greatly affect humanity in all aspects of life. Any mayhem or chaos in society will certainly bring sorrow and gnashing of teeth among people. Such actions can never promote peace in any society.
Another factor that hinders peace is the quest for supremacy by powerful nations over weaker ones. Strong nations may attempt to oppress weaker countries by launching attacks against their territorial integrity.
The Case of War in the Middle East
The war between Iraq and Iran in the Middle East became a major concern for both countries, causing severe economic setbacks not only for them but also for neighbouring regions. The war, which lasted from 1980 to 1988, reduced political stability in both nations. Although these countries largely depended on petroleum exports, the agricultural sector suffered due to inadequate water supply and insufficient government support. As a result, their economies struggled to remain viable.
This is one of the devastating effects war has on nations involved in conflict. The infrastructural decay witnessed in these countries was largely a result of the destruction caused by the war. Despite possessing rich cultural legacies and renowned archaeological sites such as Babylon, as well as Baghdad being considered an intellectual centre of Islamic scholarship during the Golden Age, the impact of war greatly affected their development.
Similarly, the conflict between Israel and Palestine has become a major obstacle to global economic development, causing immense damage to the livelihoods of people in both territories. Israel was established as a sovereign nation in 1947, and disputes over land between Israel and Palestine have continued for many years, resulting in the loss of countless lives and destruction of economic activities.
Both Israel and Palestine consider the land historically, religiously, and culturally important. The Jewish people trace deep historical and religious ties to the land. The United Nations proposed a partition of the land between Jewish and Arab states, but this proposal was rejected by Arab leaders, leading to war after Israel declared independence in 1948.
In another development, a major escalation occurred following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas on Israel, during which civilians and soldiers were killed and hostages were taken. Israel subsequently launched a large-scale military campaign in Gaza. The conflict resulted in heavy casualties, widespread destruction, and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Since then, peace has not been fully restored to the region.
The Agonizing Impact of War on Humanity
War is a state of crisis that involves killing, destruction, and devastation. The impact of war on humanity is always severe. It claims precious lives and destroys properties built with valuable resources by individuals and governments. Many people suffer terrible devastation during periods of conflict.
Forced migration from people’s original homes to unknown destinations is another consequence of war. The health hazards associated with overcrowded Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps cannot be overemphasized. In many cases, congestion in these camps leads to serious health challenges that become difficult for health practitioners to manage.
The destruction of government facilities during wartime is another devastating effect of conflict on humanity. Public assets such as government secretariats, which contain vital documents and resources essential for national development, are often destroyed during wars. Stealing and looting are also common occurrences, while missing children and the loss of valuable property are among the painful experiences recounted by survivors of war.
Conclusion
It is important for people across the globe to live peacefully with one another for the sake of global progress and economic development. Going to war is never desirable because its aftermath is always disastrous. Dialogue should always be considered from the beginning of any conflict by the aggrieved parties. War should remain the last option when addressing issues that may lead to conflict.
