War
Articles tagged with War
Study of Ukrainian war amputees finds most recover from pain and trauma
A longitudinal study of 156 Ukrainian amputees found that most experience steady improvements in pain, anxiety, and depression over time. The study revealed distinct patterns of post-amputation pain, with phantom limb pain linked to psychological distress and residual limb pain linked to depression.
Americans back NATO; Republicans split along Trump-party lines
A majority of Americans value U.S. membership in NATO and consider it a meaningful security asset, but views are sharply divided along partisan lines. Democrats are more supportive of NATO than Republicans, who hold less favorable views on the alliance's benefits to U.S. security.
When the world becomes too loud: The sensory toll of trauma on young children
A new study found that nearly half of young survivors of the October 7 attacks developed atypical sensory patterns, causing everyday stimuli to be perceived as overwhelming threats. This altered sensory processing is directly tied to emotional distress and anxiety in children.
Decade of war linked to widespread PTSD and suicidal behavior in Ukrainian children
A comprehensive scoping review of 37 studies found that Ukrainian children exposed to a decade of war face high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidality, and self-harm. Children who had been forcibly displaced, exposed to violence, or separated from parents faced higher risks of mental health problems.
Social media and monetization in the Ukraine-Russia war
The article explores how social media drives donations for Ukrainian military operations, creating a cycle of need for more funding. Former and current military personnel share their experiences, highlighting the desperation and creativity in using available tools to wage war.
War undermines human rights and agency of Israeli adolescents new study finds
The study highlights the negative impacts of war on Israeli adolescents' personal safety, equality, and freedom of expression. Despite parents being a trusted source of information, adolescents report feeling less free to express their opinions than their parents think.
How military deployment affects children: New study identifies parental burnout as critical
A new longitudinal study found that children's behavior problems are significantly linked to parental burnout, regardless of partner deployment status. Protecting children's resilience requires bolstering caregivers' emotional resources and external support to avoid burnout's negative impact on family well-being.
Experts show how major UK food crisis might occur
A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.
Data-driven analysis reveals three archetypes of armed conflicts
Researchers used machine learning to identify conflict labels from data, discovering three archetypes with distinct geographic, demographic, and economic properties. The study emphasizes the limitations of existing conflict classifications and suggests new approaches for predicting conflict severity.
Can a hashtag help prevent atrocities? Study shows social media can be a powerful tool
A new study by Binghamton University Professor Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm found that social media hashtags can help identify early warning signs of violence and amplify local voices. The research examined social media campaigns in Canada and Syria, analyzing over 5,000 posts tied to #TruthAndReconciliation and #SaveSyria.
British redcoat’s lost memoir reveals harsh realities of life as a disabled veteran
Shadrack Byfield's autobiography offers insight into the suffering and resilience of Britain's homecoming soldiers. The new evidence shows Byfield's tenacious pursuit of veterans' benefits, struggles with pain, poverty, and police, and his determination to design a custom prosthesis after losing his arm.
After more than two years of war, Palestinian children are hungry, denied education and “like the living dead”
A University of Cambridge-led study reveals that more than two years of war in Gaza has left Palestinian children too weak to learn or play, with some living on as little as a bowl of lentils a day. The report warns of a 'lost' generation emerging in Gaza due to the war's educational, physical and psychological impacts.
Why are there so many Nordic mediators?
A new book by Uppsala University researchers reveals the secrets behind Nordic mediators' success in resolving conflicts. The authors analyze over 75 years of Nordic mediation experiences and introduce a new model for assessing successful results.
New study: Years of war in Ukraine leave adolescents facing a growing mental health emergency
A new study reveals that 16% of teens exposed to both phases of the Russo-Ukrainian war experience PTSD symptoms, while over 10% experience severe depressive symptoms. The study highlights the need for immediate and sustained attention to support Ukrainian youth's mental health needs.
A freely available tool to document wartime destruction
Researchers developed an algorithm to analyze publicly available radar imagery and identify destroyed buildings in conflict zones with precision up to 86%. The method enables democratized access to conflict monitoring tools and near real-time assessment of building destruction for humanitarian response and academic research.
Animal husbandry and the fascist view of nature in Mussolini’s Italy
In fascist Italy, the state employed zootechnics to advance its aims, viewing eating animal products as a marker of power and masculinity. Despite initial ambitions, the project failed due to economic support issues and farmers' reluctance, leaving behind a legacy of fascist propaganda.
AMS Science Preview: Railways and cyclones; pinned clouds; weather warnings in wartime
Researchers investigate how adjacent cities exacerbate each other's heat island effects. A study also highlights the need for improved hindcasting infrastructure in climate science. Additionally, a campaign monitors pinned clouds over industrial sources of heat and finds that trees are more reliable against heat stress than buildings.
When helping hurts: Why acts of goodwill can stall peace
A new study reveals that even seemingly well-intentioned initiatives to help the disadvantaged side of a conflict can produce negative consequences. When humanitarian aid is not coupled with genuine political change, it may lead to moral satisfaction and decreased support for meaningful concessions for peace.
Dutch Afghanistan veterans with battle-related injuries report a similar physical and psychological quality of life as they did five years prior in a ten-year follow-up study
A 10-year follow-up study by PLOS reveals that Dutch servicemembers injured in Afghanistan maintained their quality of life. The findings suggest long-term stability for those affected by battle-related injuries.
A sequence of human rights violations precedes mass atrocities, new research shows
Researchers develop an indicator to predict the possibility of genocide based on escalating human rights abuses, including declining workers' rights, torture, and extrajudicial killings. The sequence of violations can culminate in mass atrocities, with the United Nations ultimately deciding whether they meet the criteria for genocide.
Parental emotional support protects children during war, new study finds, even when parents suffer from post traumatic symptoms
A new study found that parental emotional support helps protect children from anxiety and distress during wartime. Parents who encouraged open conversations and validated emotions created a safe space strengthening their children's resilience in the face of conflict.
Conflict, climate change and public health
The Lancet Countdown report links climate change to violence and community health, emphasizing the need for social and economic changes to prevent conflict. Strengthening food systems and ensuring emergency responses can reduce grievances and protect healthcare workers.
DNA from Napoleon’s 1812 army identifies the pathogens likely responsible for the army’s demise during their retreat from Russia
Researchers extracted DNA from Napoleon soldiers' teeth and identified Salmonella enterica and Borrelia recurrentis as causes of enteric fever and relapsing fever. The discovery sheds new light on the factors contributing to the army's downfall.
EU ambiguity on Western Sahara frozen conflict is a “glaring source” of vulnerability for Sahrawis, study shows
A new study by Dr Irene Fernández-Molina from the University of Exeter reveals that EU legal ambiguity on the Western Sahara conflict is a significant disadvantage for the Polisario Front and its Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. The study highlights how lawfare has been successfully used to challenge these ambiguities, leading to accu...
Botox-like substance brings relief to Ukrainian war amputees
A new study led by Northwestern Medicine found that botulinum toxin injections provided significant short-term relief for phantom limb pain, with an average reduction of four points on a 10-point scale. The treatment, which targets painful nerve endings around neuromas, showed promise as a potential tool to alleviate post-amputation pain.
The Lancet: Tens of thousands of children aged under five suffering acute malnutrition in Gaza, recent estimates suggest
Recent estimates suggest tens of thousands of children in Gaza are suffering from acute malnutrition, with over 12,800 severely so. The study tracks wasting among children during the war and highlights unprecedented increases in child malnutrition following periods of blockades and severe aid restrictions.
New book reveals war drove the rise of complex societies
A new book by Peter Turchin analyzing data from over 800 societies reveals that warfare was the central driver of social complexity, leading to the development of institutions for cooperation and prosociality. The Great Holocene Transformation offers insights into the evolution of human societies over 10,000 years.
Study finds ‘man’s best friend’ slows cellular aging in female veterans
A groundbreaking study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that working with service dogs can slow cellular aging in female veterans. The study, which involved female veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, revealed promising biological benefits associated with service dog training.
Assessing overconfidence among national security officials
A Dartmouth study found that national security officials are overwhelmingly overconfident, consistently misjudging the uncertainty of current and future states. Brief training can mitigate this bias, reducing overconfidence and promoting accuracy.
AI optimizes evacuation, diagnosis, and treatment of wounded soldiers in Ukraine
A study by the American College of Surgeons found that AI enhanced evacuation efficiency, optimized routes, and prioritized patients by injury severity. AI also accelerated drug delivery, identified new treatments for injuries, and supported artificial limb selection.
Veterans more likely than general population to use all types of tobacco products, including the most harmful
A new study reveals that Veterans are disproportionately using all commercial tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. The study found that Veterans had a higher risk for former and current tobacco use, as well as multiple product use, posing significant health risks.
Empathy as a double-edged sword: Study reveals hidden mental health risks for youth during war
A decade-long study found that children with early-developed empathy were more likely to experience anxiety and depression during the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting the dual role of empathy in mental health. The research suggests that empathy can be both a strength and a vulnerability in the face of mass trauma.
Temporary medical centers in Gaza known as "Medical Points" (MPs) treat an average of 117 people daily with only about 7 staff per MP
In Gaza's 'Medical Points,' temporary medical centers, an average of 117 people are treated daily with only about 7 staff members per center. Despite severe shortages, these facilities play a critical role in providing care to those in need.
Trauma can trigger OCD, not just PTSD – new study finds
A new study led by Prof. Eyal Kalanthroff and Prof. Helen Blair Simpson found that acute trauma can spark the onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or intensify existing symptoms. Nearly 40% of survivors from Gaza communities met OCD criteria, with new-onset symptoms reported by nearly one in four.
Living in hotels: The complex reality for Israeli evacuees after October 7
A new study reveals how hotels can mirror the psychological pains of imprisonment during wartime, raising questions about displaced communities. Evacuees experienced emotional and psychological distress, feeling trapped in comfortable yet confining settings.
Trauma’s link to gambling problems: The hidden costs of October 7
A new study at Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that Israeli men with emotional regulation difficulties were more likely to develop gambling problems after the October 7 attacks. Gambling became a coping mechanism for fear, grief, and uncertainty during the war.
When war shakes faith: How conflict reshapes religion and spirituality
A recent study surveyed over 1,200 Jewish-Israeli university students during the Israel-Gaza war, finding that half reported changes in their religiosity and/or spirituality. The research reveals a striking picture of how war can both strengthen and weaken religious and spiritual beliefs.
New diagnostic code for Gulf War illness marks major step forward for veteran care and research
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is now assigning a dedicated diagnostic code to Gulf War illness, recognizing the condition's chronic nature and physical symptoms. This development aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, and research for veterans affected by the Gulf War.
Smartwatches detect early signs of PTSD among those watching coverage of the Oct 7 attacks in Israel
A three-year study found that smartwatches can detect early signs of PTSD among Israelis who watched extensive media coverage of the Oct 7 attacks. Participants who developed PTSD showed sharper increases in stress levels and declines in mood, physical activity, and sleep quality.
Analyzing the Gaza genocide allegations: A re-examination of the Israel-Hamas War between October 7, 2023 and June 1, 2025
A new study by a team of researchers critically examines accusations that Israel committed crimes against humanity during the 2023-2025 Israel-Gaza War. The study highlights systemic failures in major international information bodies and calls for higher evidentiary standards in conflict reporting.
UCLA receives $7.1M federal grant to expand psychotherapy treatment for chronic pain
The trial will evaluate the effectiveness of EAET on nearly 700 war veterans across seven US Department of Veterans Affairs centers. Previous research by Dr. Brandon Yarns found that EAET provided significant pain relief compared to traditional cognitive behavioral therapy among older adults.
Victims of ‘enforced disappearances’ face unique mental health challenges, says Dr Anis Ahmed
Victims of enforced disappearances experience prolonged uncertainty and ambiguous loss, leading to chronic depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Mental health professionals lack clear guidance on treating these cases, highlighting a need for evidence-based treatments and policy changes.
Multidrug-resistant bacteria spread from war-zone hospitals to other countries
A study by the University of Helsinki found that nearly 80% of Ukrainian refugees with war injuries carried multidrug-resistant bacteria. However, non-hospitalized refugees showed no significant increase in MDR bacteria carriage rates. The Finnish healthcare system is taking precautions to tackle this challenge.
New term for systematic, deliberate attacks on healthcare as acts of war: ‘healthocide’
The deliberate destruction of health services and systems is now termed 'healthocide,' with medical practitioners called to action. The authors highlight the need for critical reflection and decisive action to address this growing concern, emphasizing the importance of medical neutrality and international humanitarian law.
New study in Ukraine indicates significant lifetime exposure and ongoing transmission of hepatitis B and C viruses among the general population
A nationwide study in Ukraine found substantial lifetime exposure to hepatitis B and C viruses, with significant ongoing circulation among the population. The study emphasizes the need for hepatitis B vaccination among infants and risk groups, as well as regular screening, treatment, and awareness-raising efforts.
Short-term digital mental health interventions reduces depression and anxiety in Ukrainian children and adolescents displaced by war
A digital mental health intervention reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in displaced Ukrainian children and adolescents. The study found that a small, low-cost intervention delivered through mobile devices significantly improved mental health outcomes.
Gaza disengagement revisited in light of October 7: Hidden multilateral dimensions of 2005 withdrawal revealed
A new study reveals that Israel's 2005 Gaza Disengagement Plan was a product of coordination between Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and international stakeholders. The plan, which was presented as unilateral, actually involved extensive negotiations behind the scenes.
After 20-year war, Afghanistan reports lowest well-being in recorded history
A new study by the University of Toronto finds Afghans' life satisfaction and hope at an all-time, global low. The research highlights profound distress and despair within the country due to structural factors like war and political unrest.
Researchers from Incheon National University unpack audience costs in us allies’ foreign policy choices
A study by Incheon National University researchers reveals how audience costs impact US allies' foreign policy decisions, with prevailing pro-US sentiment enhancing credibility of alignment commitments. The study found that citizens who lean towards China tolerate or even reward alignment reversals.
Do traumatic events predict eating disorders among Palestinians?
A study of 580 Palestinian adults found that individuals who experienced traumatic events were more likely to develop eating disorders. Sociodemographic factors such as gender, age, and education level also played a significant role in the development of eating disorders among Palestinians.
Extreme drought contributed to barbarian invasion of late Roman Britain, tree-ring study reveals
A tree-ring study published in Climatic Change suggests that severe summer droughts in 364, 365 and 366 CE led to the 'Barbarian Conspiracy' of 367 CE. The researchers argue that these droughts triggered food shortages and reduced grain supply to Hadrian's Wall, providing a motive for the rebellion.
Preventable pediatric cancer mortality surges in areas of armed conflict, exceeding rates in non-conflict regions
A new study finds that more than half of all pediatric cancer deaths occur in regions of armed conflict, with a significant impact on diagnosis and treatment. Conflict disrupts healthcare systems, leading to delays and increased mortality risk.
Soldiers can cope with killing
A study of over 14,600 Norwegian veterans found that taking a life in combat had no subsequent impact on their mental well-being. In contrast, veterans who served in Lebanon experienced increased mental health problems and reduced quality of life after killing someone in combat.
New study reveals high levels of anxiety and emotional distress following the April 2024 Iranian missile attack
A new study reveals high levels of peritraumatic distress (41%) and anxiety (19%) among adults in Israel five days after the Iranian drone and missile attack. The study highlights the need for early identification and timely therapeutic intervention to mitigate long-term psychological harm.
Internal displacement in Syria used to reshape the country’s political and social landscape, new study shows
A new study by the University of Exeter highlights how the Syrian regime systematically employed internal displacement as a military-political strategy to depopulate key areas and create new realities. This tactic has lasting post-war consequences, embedding displacement beyond immediate conflict and requiring policymakers to engage wi...
Terrorists time their attacks during periods of security or financial crisis
Research from Binghamton University finds that terrorist groups deliberately target vulnerable targets during crises to strike a balance between achieving objectives and preserving their reputation. Financial crises provide the best opportunity for attacks, while humanitarian crises tend to deter violence due to shared human suffering.
Aston University study reveals the illusion of ‘dazzle’ paint on World War I battleships
A new analysis of 105-year-old data found that while dazzle camouflage had some effect, the 'horizon effect' had a much greater influence on confusing enemy ships. The study, led by Aston University researchers, showed that when people looked at a ship in the distance, they significantly underestimated its direction of travel.
No countries on track to meet all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals
A new analysis reveals that no country is on track to meet all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals by the target year of 2030. Machine-learning tools were applied to over 20 years' worth of data from 231 indicators and GDP data, highlighting complex linkages between goals.
Study finds food deliveries to Gaza met nutritional standards, but distribution challenges persist
A new study in the Israel Journal of Health Policy Research found that food deliveries to Gaza between January and July 2024 exceeded international caloric and nutritional standards, except for dietary iron. Despite meeting energy and protein needs, distribution challenges prevented equitable access to food.