Do you know how many countries are currently engaged in armed conflicts of any kind?
As of March 2026, international monitoring groups such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project estimate 120–130 active armed conflicts globally, with around 60 countries directly involved.
High-Intensity Wars in the Global Spotlight
Iran–Israel–US Conflict
The confrontation between Iran, Israel, and the United States has become one of the most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints. Rooted in longstanding tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence, the situation escalated on February 28, 2026, following coordinated airstrikes by the US and Israel targeting Iranian nuclear and missile infrastructure. The reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader further heightened tensions.
Iran responded with missile, drone, and maritime operations targeting US military bases and several Gulf nations — Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman — along with Jordan and Iraq. In total, 11 countries are directly affected, making this a highly complex and far-reaching conflict.
Russia–Ukraine War
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, was partly driven by concerns over NATO expansion. Ukraine has continued to resist with sustained support from Western allies.
The war has resulted in significant loss of life, large-scale displacement, and disruptions to global food and energy systems. Belarus has allowed Russian troop movements through its territory, while North Korea has reportedly provided personnel support. Meanwhile, countries including the US, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Canada, and Italy have extended military and intelligence assistance to Ukraine.
The conflict has evolved into a prolonged international standoff with wide-ranging consequences.
Civil Wars with Limited Global Attention
Sudan
Since 2023, Sudan has faced intense fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has led to widespread civilian harm, displacement, and severe food insecurity.
Millions have been forced to flee, creating one of the most serious humanitarian crises in Africa, though it receives relatively limited global attention.
Myanmar
Following the 2021 military takeover, Myanmar has experienced a complex internal conflict involving the military, resistance groups, and ethnic armed organisations. Clashes, airstrikes, and attacks on populated areas have displaced around three million people. Access to food, healthcare, and shelter remains a major concern, while international attention has been comparatively limited.
Yemen
The conflict in Yemen began in 2014 and intensified in 2015 with external military involvement.
Years of airstrikes, blockades, and ground fighting have contributed to widespread food shortages, disease outbreaks, and displacement. While violence has fluctuated, the situation remains fragile.
Syria
The Syrian Civil War began during the Arab Spring protests and developed into a multi-sided conflict involving government forces, opposition groups, extremist organisations, and international actors such as Russia and the US.
The war has caused extensive destruction, significant loss of life, and large-scale displacement. Syria remains divided, with ongoing humanitarian challenges.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia is currently navigating regional tensions. In 2026, it recognised Somaliland as independent in exchange for access to a naval facility, drawing strong reactions from Somalia.
Relations with Eritrea have deteriorated, with both sides increasing military presence along their border. Sudan has also raised concerns about alleged cross-border activity. These developments risk escalating into broader regional instability.
Libya
Libya continues to experience instability due to competing administrations and armed groups. External involvement has complicated efforts toward political resolution, leaving the country in a prolonged state of uncertainty.
Medium- and Low-Intensity Conflicts
Afghanistan
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, ISIS-K has carried out attacks targeting civilians and public spaces.
In 2026, cross-border tensions with Pakistan increased following operations against armed groups. The situation has contributed to regional instability and humanitarian concerns.
Somalia
Somalia continues to face an insurgency led by Al-Shabaab, which conducts attacks against civilian and government targets.
Ongoing clan tensions and political instability further complicate the situation, leading to displacement and prolonged humanitarian challenges.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
In eastern regions such as North Kivu and Ituri, armed groups including M23 have intensified operations against government forces.
The conflict involves multiple factions and longstanding community tensions, resulting in displacement, forced recruitment, and economic disruption.
Mali
Mali continues to face insurgencies linked to extremist networks. Political instability, including military coups, has weakened governance and allowed armed groups to expand their influence.
Violence and displacement have affected both Mali and neighbouring countries.
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is dealing with ongoing insurgent activity and political instability. Armed groups operate across large areas, affecting civilian safety and contributing to widespread displacement.Burkina Faso is dealing with ongoing insurgent activity and political instability. Armed groups operate across large areas, affecting civilian safety and contributing to widespread displacement.
Niger
Niger faces similar challenges, with insurgent activity and political instability following the 2023 coup. Violence has spread across multiple regions, creating humanitarian pressures and cross-border concerns.
Nigeria
Nigeria is experiencing multiple overlapping security challenges, including insurgency, armed banditry, separatist tensions, and farmer–herder conflicts. These issues have displaced millions and disrupted livelihoods, contributing to ongoing instability.
Mozambique
In Cabo Delgado, insurgent groups have targeted communities and infrastructure, including energy projects. Despite regional military support, the situation remains unstable, affecting both security and economic development.
Central African Republic
The government continues to face opposition from armed groups, with support from international partners and UN peacekeeping missions. While there have been some territorial gains, large areas remain outside full state control, and humanitarian conditions remain difficult.
Israel / Gaza
The conflict escalated in October 2023 following a large-scale attack by Hamas. Israel responded with air and ground operations, while rocket fire continued from Gaza. The situation has led to significant civilian suffering, infrastructure damage, and shortages of essential supplies, alongside rising regional tensions.
Iraq
Iraq continues to experience low-level instability, with periodic attacks by ISIS remnants and tensions involving armed groups and foreign forces. Political uncertainty and security concerns persist.
Colombia
Despite the 2016 peace agreement, armed groups including FARC dissidents and ELN remain active, particularly in rural and border regions. Violence linked to illegal economies continues to affect communities.
Philippines
The Philippines faces ongoing insurgencies involving both communist and Islamist groups, particularly in Mindanao. Security incidents continue to affect stability and displacement.
Pakistan
Pakistan continues to face militant activity, separatist tensions in Balochistan, and cross-border challenges with Afghanistan. Recent developments have led to increased instability in several regions.
Thailand
Thailand’s southern provinces continue to experience a long-running separatist movement seeking greater autonomy. While relatively low in intensity, the conflict remains unresolved and continues to affect local communities.
