FAMED philosopher Bertrand Russell rightly noted that war does not determine “who is right, but who is left”. Nations have historically waged wars to show their dominance, and to follow the strategy of expansionism and nationalism.

The proponents of war are initially regarded as heroes by their followers, but history tends to consign them to the category of hungry savages adamant on quenching their thirst for power and dominance. Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler come to the mind immediately. They were once considered national heroes, but are now remembered as the dark souls.

War does not lead any nation to glory. That is why great leaders are the ones who end a war and promote peace. Peace agreements, like the Treaty of Hudaibya, were put forward to avoid conflicts and wars, and had it not been for such pacts, the world would have been a different place today.

Today, war clouds are hovering all over the planet. Nations have to wake up to the reality, and take due preventive measures. The pursuit of peace should be an active agenda. In fact, it should be the lone agenda. Time is running out, mind you.

Ausaf Hyder Sial
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, November 25th, 2024