We’ve all heard about the ongoing conflicts lately, but it can be tough to keep track of what's really happening, especially when the news feels all over the place.
No need to worry—I’m here to help!
I’ve put together this article to give you a clear and friendly summary of the current war, covering all the important details you need to know and how things are unfolding. I’m focusing on the main players involved: the USA, Iran, Russia, China, Israel, and the Gulf countries. Let’s dive in together!
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At war with- Iran, Venezuela, Syria, Iraq and Somalia.
The Trump administration has certainly kept things interesting since taking office. First, there were the tariffs, followed by the nerve-wracking conspiracy surrounding the release of the Epstein files. Then, there was the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro—it's uncertain whether he is dead or alive. Following that, they attacked Iran, citing "imminent threats."
The states claim that the objectives of bombing were nuclear prevention, eliminating missile infrastructure, and regime change. However, there is no correlation. The USA spends trillions of dollars on national security, but wants other countries to be stripped of their basic rights.
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Does the government suggest that we stop supporting our own national security because apparently, only they can handle it? Furthermore, Trump cannot provide a clear statement on when we should expect peace; his comments are often jumbled and lack substance. If the USA wants to meet these objectives, we suggest it drop its military facilities and nuclear bombs.
Financial and economic impact - Crude oil prices, the cost of living, and the surge in fuel prices are major concerns. The USA spends approximately $891 million on military operations every single day. Their national debt has escalated to $38.36 trillion, yet instead of prioritising the needs of citizens and addressing this debt, it seems acceptable to increase the defence budget to $1.5 trillion, even though the existing defence debt is already $5.8 trillion.
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Israel
At war with- Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Palestine.
Israel has been in conflict with other countries for a long time. Before these recent conflicts, it was well-known how many wars they had faced. Allied with the United States. As of now, Israel has backed away from the United States and their missions.
Financial and Economic Impact - Per week, Israel spends $2.3 billion on the war effort. The country's GDP has decreased from 5.3% to 4.7%, and its debt has increased by 68.6%. Services for civilians have been cut to fund the war, indicating that the well-being of citizens is being compromised in favour of military spending. Investments in the country have slowed down, but there are still some who appear to benefit from the war and support funding for defence.
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Iran
At war with - USA, Israel, Gulf Countries
The USA assassinated Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, which initially shocked the country and the entire Shia Muslim community. In response, Iran revolted against the USA and its allies. What feels unclear is why Iran attacked Gulf countries, and particularly why they targeted civilian-sensitive areas such as airports.
Countries should understand that civilian casualties are a significant concern and not a trivial matter. If there are issues with a country, the focus should be on military targets, not civilians.
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Tragically, there was even an attack on a girls' school in Iran. But why children? Out of all children, innocent souls who likely do not understand what war is.
Financial and Economic Impact - 4,000 civilians living in buildings have been attacked. Kharg Island has been attacked; it is the source of 90% of Iran's oil, and now per barrel prices have increased from $100 to $120, leading to a 70% increase in inflation. World Bank estimates, a spike of, 60+% in the inflation rate. They are enduring loss in trade and industrial shutdown, as of now.
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Russia
At War With - Ukraine
Military support to - Syria and Iran
Russia has been in an ongoing conflict with Ukraine for the past four years. It has been providing military support and intelligence to Iran in its recent war. Additionally, Russia has been supplying oil, and demand has increased; however, it sells oil in its own currency. Iran is also following a similar path.
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China
China has not been directly participating in wars, but it has been providing intelligence to various countries through its BeiDou satellite constellation, which is its own version of GPS. Additionally, China has been supplying spare parts, specifically missile fuel precursors, to countries involved in armed conflicts, and it has been discreetly supporting Iran in its ongoing wars. Furthermore, China has openly and officially questioned Washington's decision to strike Iran.
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Gulf Countries
On March 16, 2026, the UAE experienced nine ballistic missile attacks and 35 drone assaults. In Bahrain, a building was struck, resulting in the tragic death of a 29-year-old woman. Meanwhile, air defence systems in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar successfully intercepted a ballistic missile and over 17 other drones.
As of now, Iran has attacked them. It's uncertain why, but many believe due to either the US involvement, military support/presence or their alliance/support to the USA.
As of March 13th, in the UAE, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, oil production dropped by 10 million barrels per day. Qatar Energy declared force majeure on its contracts and increased its oil supply prices to Asia. Strikes have affected major refineries in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, causing significant infrastructure damage in the UAE.
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Gulf countries have experienced over 4,000+ flight cancellations per day due to the ongoing conflict and targeted attacks. Additionally, these countries heavily rely on the export of food supplies and daily necessities, which have been put on hold.
We must acknowledge that immigrant families in the Gulf countries, regardless of their culture, nationality, or religion, have been providing aid—such as food, necessities, and medical attention—to those who have been hurt or stranded in the country. The Gulf countries have independently recognised and appreciated these modern-day heroes.
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These are some of the major countries experiencing conflict. While many wars have been ongoing, such as those in Afghanistan and Pakistan and between North and South Korea, I am primarily focusing on the Iran conflict, as it is a current hot topic that is escalating quickly. Let us all pray for collective peace and extend our help to the innocent lives suffering in these situations.
