Global Conflicts in 2025: An Overview

1. Gaza War (Israel–Palestine Conflict)

The conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups launched a surprise attack on Israel. In response, Israel initiated a military offensive in Gaza. As of May 2025, over 62,000 Palestinians have been killed, nearly half of whom were women and children. The United Nations has declared a famine in Gaza, with projections indicating that 641,000 people could be affected by September 2025. International organizations have condemned the blockade and settlement expansions as potential war crimes.

2. Ukraine Conflict

The war between Russia and Ukraine, which began in 2022, remains unresolved. Despite efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump to broker peace, including meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the situation remains tense. As of August 2025, President Trump expressed frustration over stalled negotiations and hinted at potential changes in U.S. involvement.

3. Sudanese Civil War

Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has resulted in over 61,000 deaths, with the majority due to disease and hunger. Approximately 30.4 million people, nearly two-thirds of Sudan's population, are in need of humanitarian assistance. The crisis has led to the largest migration crisis globally, with 11 million displaced internally and 3 million fleeing to neighboring countries.

4. Democratic Republic of the Congo–Rwanda Conflict

Tensions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have escalated since 2022, primarily due to the activities of the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC. Rwanda has been accused of supporting the rebels, leading to severe humanitarian consequences. In March 2025, M23 captured key cities like Goma and Bukavu, displacing over 178,000 people. Despite calls for ceasefires and peace talks, the conflict persists.

5. Cambodia–Thailand Border Conflict

A territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand escalated into armed conflict in July 2025. The fighting resulted in numerous casualties and significant displacement on both sides. An unconditional ceasefire was agreed upon on July 28, 2025; however, violations have been reported, and tensions remain high.

6. India–Pakistan Conflict

In April 2025, a terrorist attack near Pahalgam in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir killed 26 civilians, mostly Hindu tourists. Pakistan alleged that the attack was a "false flag operation" by India. In response, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and closed its airspace to Pakistani airlines. The situation has led to diplomatic tensions and border skirmishes between the two nuclear-armed nations.