Understanding International Conflict examines why conflict and war are persistent features of international politics and explains them in a clear, accessible manner for readers of all backgrounds. The book presents a simplified framework to help readers understand how conflicts emerge, endure, and affect the global system, while emphasizing that their consequences extend beyond borders into everyday life through economic instability, security concerns, and social disruption. By connecting global events to real-world impacts, the book encourages critical thinking and greater awareness, highlighting the importance of understanding international conflicts in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.