No victory in war: A global call for humanity

Some reflections on the Iran-Israel conflict and the silent suffering of ordinary people: “War is decided by a handful of leaders, but its price is paid by thousands of ordinary people. In the end, it is humanity that loses.” In today’s world, where technology has brought us closer and scientific progress has made life easier, war still remains a dark stain on our civilisation. The recent tensions between Iran and Israel starkly reveal that war continues to be humanity’s greatest failure. I am merely a general observer, not an expert in warfare.

Yet I am deeply aware that when one side adopts aggressive tactics, the other responds with defensive strategies—often employing new forms of weaponry or methods of protection. But regardless of the strategy, it is ordinary people on both sides who suffer the most. In the modern era, war is synonymous with defeat. Today, there is no such thing as victory in war. Cities are destroyed, families torn apart, and futures reduced to ashes in the name of politics and power. A few leaders make decisions, but the burden is carried by millions of men, women, children, and the elderly. Even in this age of advanced weaponry, drones, and missiles, absolute security is never guaranteed.

Every act of retaliation only escalates tensions further. Thus, the cycle of hatred and violence becomes inevitable. What we need is not victory, but mutual resolution. So, the question arises—is there a better path? Yes, undoubtedly. We believe that peace is not a weakness; it is wisdom. Dialogue is not surrender; it is strength. Every war eventually ends at the negotiating table—so why not sit there from the very beginning? We must cultivate a new mindset—one where tolerance replaces aggression, and dialogue takes the place of vengeance. We want to raise a new generation not as soldiers of war, but as champions of peace.

A heartfelt appeal for humanity: We urge every peace-loving person across the globe to raise your voice against this war. Not only when the fighting begins, but before it erupts—speak out as tensions rise. Urge your leaders to act with morality and compassion. Support every initiative that seeks to halt conflict, protect innocent lives, and uphold human dignity.

Let us not forget—true strength does not lie in destroying enemies, but in disarming hatred. The time for change is now. Let this painful moment become an awakening. Let it be the time when the people of the world choose peace over arrogance, reason over rage, humanity over hatred. For though wars occur between nations, it is humanity that bleeds. And from that—we must seek liberation.

KM Zainul Abedin: A columnist and retired engineer