Fazal Masood Malik and Farhan Khokhar, Canada
War, once a means to end oppression and bring peace, has evolved into a peace-ending and self-perpetuating economic driver in the modern era. No longer offering a temporary solution to the conflict, wars today are driven by political motives, economic interests and cultural forces that often have little to do with securing peace. Sustained conflicts have distorted the original purpose of war and complicated the pursuit of lasting stability. Instead of restoring order, modern warfare serves to entrench instability.
In the early days of Islam, the wars fought by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa were defensive and aimed at protecting the nascent Muslim community from existential threats. These early conflicts, such as the battles of Badr and Uhud, evolved over time toward diplomatic resolutions, exemplified by the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and the eventual peaceful Conquest of Mecca. These strategies prioritised long-term peace and minimised bloodshed, a reflection of the Quranic teaching:
وَاِنۡ جَنَحُوۡا لِلسَّلۡمِ فَاجۡنَحۡ لَہَا وَتَوَکَّلۡ عَلَی اللّٰہِ ؕ اِنَّہٗ ہُوَ السَّمِیۡعُ الۡعَلِیۡمُ
“And if they incline towards peace, incline thou also towards it, and put thy trust in Allah. Surely, it is He Who is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” (Surah al-Anfal, Ch.8: V.62)
In contrast, the forces driving modern wars have shifted dramatically. Today, conflicts are more likely to be shaped by the economic principle of military Keynesianism, a term used by Chalmers Johnson to describe the idea that military expenditure can fuel economic growth. In the United States, for example, the defense budget dominates federal spending, with little direct benefit to the broader social economy. The belief that military spending stimulates economic prosperity has long been debunked, yet it persists, driving nations into ever-deepening cycles of conflict. This endless cycle of military production, spending, and deployment results not in peace but in national debt, social decay, and continued dependence on the war economy. (“Why the US Has Really Gone Broke”, https://mondediplo.com)
The Holy Quran warns against excess and transgression, stating, “[…] do not transgress. Surely, Allah loves not the transgressors.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.191) Yet, many modern governments ignore this principle, allowing their defence budgets to balloon uncontrollably. Military contractors, arms dealers, and defence industry stakeholders benefit while citizens suffer and the promise of peace fades into the background.
Politically, conflicts such as in Afghanistan and Iraq are often justified using lofty rhetoric about democracy, human rights, or global security. However, these conflicts are rarely about such ideals. Instead, they are driven by strategic political and economic interests, particularly in volatile regions like the Middle East. These wars, once touted as essential for national security, quickly morphed into long-term occupations with unclear objectives with plenty of unintended consequences. The original justifications dissolved, leaving behind political instability and civilian suffering. (“The Justification of War and International Order”, www.e-ir.info)
The Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa approach to conflict stands in stark contrast to the modern model. His wars were fought out of necessity and ended as soon as peace was achievable. His strategic shift from military confrontation to diplomacy, particularly through agreements such as the Charter of Medina, Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and alliances with several tribes shows how he sought long-term stability over short-term tactical victories.
These agreements, though initially viewed as signs of weakness, guaranteed a war-free time which ultimately paved the way for the peaceful victory over Mecca and the unification of Arabia under Islam. His actions in any conflict, reflected the ethical principle that “Actions are judged by motives, so each man will have what he intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab bad-ul-wahi, Hadith 1) In contrast, modern conflicts often lack such ethical grounding, with vested interests taking precedence over any sincere pursuit of peace.
Another significant factor perpetuating modern conflict is the cultural glorification of the military, where the armed forces are revered, and war is often viewed as a noble pursuit. This militarisation of society fosters a mindset that sees violence as the primary means of solving disputes. Diplomacy, when it is even attempted, becomes secondary to military action. In such an environment, wars are not viewed as tragedies to be avoided but as necessary, even virtuous endeavours. (“The Hazards of Military Worship”, https://tomdispatch.com)
This cultural militarisation runs counter to the Islamic ethos of peace. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa emphasised restraint and ethical conduct in warfare. He forbade the killing of women, children, and non-combatants and even prohibited the destruction of crops and trees. The Holy Quran reinforces this ethic, stating: “And fight them until there is no persecution, and religion is [freely professed] for Allah. But if they desist, then [remember] that no hostility is allowed except against the aggressors.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.194)
It is unfortunate that modern wars have become self-perpetuating, driven by economic incentives, political interests and cultural glorification of militarism. These forces have turned conflicts into long-term engagements with no clear end, undermining any genuine pursuit of peace. (“The Justification of War and International Order”, www.e-ir.info)
As for Muslims, the words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa should serve as a guiding light, where he reminds us that the challenges faced by Muslims globally are compounded by internal divisions which are used to start and perpetuate wars. This highlights the critical need for collective action and faith. Huzooraa has reminded us that true change can only come when Muslims align their actions with the teachings of Islam, fostering harmony and mutual support. Ultimately, through sincere prayers and a commitment to lead their lives as true believers, Muslims can hope for divine assistance and protection against the adversity they face today. (Friday Sermon, 11 October, 2024)