Two wars.

In Two Wars, author critically examines the Cold War and the War on Terror (WoT), spotlighting their extensive global impacts and underlying ideological motivations. The Cold War, a rivalry between capitalist and communist blocs from 1947 to 1991, involved indirect battles of influence across continents. Conversely, the WoT emerged post-9/11 as a direct conflict between nation-states and violent non-state actors like Al Qaeda, resulting in prolonged military entanglements across Afghanistan, Iraq, and beyond. Despite the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, Babakhel argues, the WoT remains unresolved, with its influence permeating geopolitics to this day.

Babakhel details how both wars have shaped international alliances, security measures, and state sovereignty. The Cold War established blocs like NATO, while the WoT expanded US influence through partnerships such as the Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) designations, allowing the US to maintain a military foothold globally. Furthermore, the WoT’s counter-terrorism efforts led to controversial security policies, including the US Patriot Act, heightening surveillance and impacting human rights. Nations affected by the WoT, particularly those with weaker economies and civil conflicts, faced territorial and political destabilization, underscoring the war’s far-reaching consequences.

In conclusion, Babakhel contends that terrorism assists as a commercial and power-generating enterprise for influential states and militant groups alike. He warns that military responses alone cannot eradicate the complex roots of extremism; sustainable peace demands a holistic approach that prioritizes social empowerment and economic resilience. The WoT, he argues, has fostered a cycle where violence and power remain intertwined, calling for a strategic re-evaluation beyond mere military might.

Overview:

In “Two Wars,” Mohammad Ali Babakhel examines the enduring impacts of the War on Terror (WoT) and draws parallels with the Cold War. Following the events of 9/11, the WoT has reshaped global dynamics, echoing the ideological confrontations that defined the Cold War. While the Cold War was marked by a struggle between capitalism and communism, the WoT emerged as a conflict between nation-states and violent non-state actors, significantly affecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of various countries. The author underscores that, although the U.S. officially withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021, the conflict continues to evolve, indicating that the WoT has merely transitioned into a new phase rather than concluding.

Babakhel emphasizes that both wars have influenced international relations and shaped geopolitical landscapes, though in different manners. The Cold War was characterized by a nuclear arms race and indirect military engagements, while the WoT has led to direct military involvement and significant human rights concerns. Furthermore, he highlights that terrorism is a transnational issue requiring a comprehensive approach that includes countering violent narratives and investing in social empowerment. Ultimately, the author argues that reliance on military force alone is insufficient to address the complexities of terrorism, which thrives on political and economic instability.

 NOTES :

1. The article discusses critical themes relevant to international relations, conflict resolution, and terrorism. Aspirants should be aware of how these conflicts shape global policies and alliances.
2. Historical Context: Understanding the historical context of both the Cold War and the War on Terror is essential for grasping contemporary geopolitical dynamics.
3. The mention of human rights issues related to the WoT is significant for topics concerning governance and civil liberties.

 Relevancy with CSS syllabus /Topics :

– International Relations

– Pakistan Affairs

– Current Affairs

– Human Rights and Governance

– Global Issues and Challenges

 Notes for Beginners with Examples:

– Terrorism as a Global Issue: Recognize how terrorism affects not just one nation but can have global implications, as seen in the WoT.

– Importance of Understanding Conflicts : Familiarize yourself with different historical conflicts to better understand current geopolitical issues. For example, comparing the Cold War’s ideological struggle with the WoT’s multifaceted challenges can provide deeper insights into international relations.

Facts And Figures :

– The WoT officially began in 2001 and continues to evolve, impacting global security and international relations significantly.

– The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 was seen as a pivotal moment, but the underlying issues remain unresolved.

To sum up, Babakhel’s analysis in “Two Wars” provides a thought-provoking examination of the long-lasting consequences of the War on Terror, comparing it with the Cold War to highlight the complexities of modern warfare and international relations.

( Multifaceted challenges facing our world today)

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