What does this research mean for the field?

The current geopolitical climate, marked by military actions and escalating conflicts, undermines international norms designed to prevent war and protect civilian life. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.INCREMENTAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

This research examines the effects of escalating conflicts on international norms and humanitarian outcomes.

March 16, 2026Open Access

Humanity first, not country first

Key Points

This research examines the effects of escalating conflicts on international norms and humanitarian outcomes.
Analysis of recent geopolitical events in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran.
Examination of military actions by the USA and Israel.
Assessment of the impact on civilian life and regional stability.
Increased military strikes exacerbate regional conflicts and instability.
Widespread humanitarian crises emerge in affected regions.
Existing international norms struggle to protect civilian lives.

Abstract

International order is entering a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty. From Ukraine to Gaza and now Iran, conflicts are escalating in ways that test the institutions and norms created to prevent war and protect civilian life. Military strikes by the USA and Israel on Iran beginning on Feb 28, 2026, have further destabilised a region that is already grappling with multiple conflicts and humanitarian crises, including the war in Gaza, long-running conflicts in Syria and Yemen, and ongoing political and economic instability in Lebanon and Iraq.

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Cite This Study

The Lancet Regional Health – Europe (Sun,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69b79dce8166e15b153ab005 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanepe.2026.101664

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