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What role did international intervention play in civil wars?

International intervention often influences the outcome of civil wars by providing military, financial, or diplomatic support to the conflicting parties.

International intervention in civil wars can take various forms and have different impacts. It can be direct, such as military intervention, or indirect, such as providing financial aid, weapons, or training to one or both sides of the conflict. The intervention can also be diplomatic, involving mediation, negotiation, or the imposition of sanctions. The role of international intervention is often crucial in determining the outcome of civil wars, as it can tip the balance of power in favour of one side or the other.

For instance, during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), international intervention played a significant role. Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy provided military support to the Nationalists, while the Soviet Union supported the Republicans. This international involvement was instrumental in the Nationalists' victory. Similarly, in the Syrian Civil War, international intervention has been a key factor. Russia and Iran have provided military support to the Assad regime, while the United States and other Western countries have supported various opposition groups.

However, international intervention can also prolong civil wars by preventing either side from achieving a decisive victory. This was the case in the Angolan Civil War (1975-2002), where foreign intervention by the United States, the Soviet Union, and Cuba resulted in a protracted conflict.

Moreover, international intervention can also complicate peace processes. In the Bosnian War (1992-1995), for example, international intervention initially failed to stop the conflict and even exacerbated it by providing arms to the warring factions. It was only after a concerted international diplomatic effort, culminating in the Dayton Agreement, that the war was finally ended.

In conclusion, international intervention can significantly influence the course and outcome of civil wars. Its impact can be positive or negative, depending on the nature of the intervention and the specific context of the civil war. It is therefore a crucial factor to consider in any analysis of civil wars.

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