New York, Dec 31 (V7N) — The year 2025 has ended as another tumultuous period marked by widespread conflict, humanitarian crises, and climate-related disasters across the world. From the Middle East to Europe, South Asia to Africa, no region has remained untouched by violence, instability, or natural calamities.

Middle East: Gaza, Lebanon, and Beyond

The people of Gaza endured another year of extreme humanitarian suffering. The violence that erupted on October 7, 2023, continued to affect Palestinians throughout 2025. Despite a ceasefire signed last October, attacks in Gaza have persisted.

Beyond Gaza, the broader Middle East remained unstable. Israel launched military operations against several countries, including Lebanon, Yemen, Qatar, and Syria. The 12-day Iran-Israel conflict in June caused heavy casualties, with the United States striking Tehran’s nuclear facilities before mediating a temporary halt to the war.

Internal conflicts also continued in the region. Even after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Syria remained in turmoil due to power struggles among rival groups. Yemen experienced ongoing clashes between factions vying for control, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Europe: Russia-Ukraine War Continues

Europe witnessed the worst war since World War II as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine persisted. Multiple rounds of talks mediated by the United States failed to produce a definitive end to the hostilities that began in February 2022.

Africa: Civil Wars and Militancy

African nations faced extreme hardship. Sudan remained mired in a civil war lasting over three and a half years, resulting in one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Northern Congo experienced widespread violence due to internal power struggles. Militant groups remained active across West Africa, including Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, creating insecurity and displacement.

South Asia: Tensions and Conflicts

South Asia continued to experience political and military instability. Brief hostilities between India and Pakistan subsided after four days of fighting, while Pakistan engaged in repeated conflicts with Afghanistan. Myanmar witnessed a prolonged civil war throughout the year. Border tensions also flared between Thailand and Cambodia, and the situation between China and Taiwan remained tense due to military exercises and threats. The Korean Peninsula remained volatile, with North Korea, South Korea, and Japan on high alert at different points in the year.

Global Protests and Political Upheaval

According to the Global Protest Tracker, 2025 saw movements against corruption, authoritarianism, and governmental irregularities in at least 70 countries. Governments fell in some nations, including Nepal and Bulgaria, reflecting widespread public dissatisfaction.

Economic Instability

The global economy remained unstable amid trade tensions. After returning to power, Donald Trump initiated a new tariff war, impacting numerous countries and disrupting international markets despite ongoing negotiations.

Climate and Natural Disasters

The effects of climate change were starkly visible in 2025. Europe, the Americas, and Asia experienced extreme weather events, including earthquakes, wildfires, storms, and floods, displacing millions and causing widespread destruction.

As the year concludes, 2025 will be remembered as one marked by conflict, human suffering, and environmental disasters, underscoring the urgent need for global cooperation and humanitarian action.

END/SMA/AJ