What are examples of interest-based conflict in current geopolitics?

Examples of interest-based conflict in current geopolitics include the US-China trade war, Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the Israel-Palestine dispute.

The US-China trade war is a prime example of an interest-based conflict. This conflict arose due to the US's concerns about China's trade practices, which it perceives as unfair. The US has accused China of intellectual property theft, forced technology transfers, and maintaining a high trade deficit. In response, the US imposed tariffs on Chinese goods, leading to a tit-for-tat tariff war. This conflict is interest-based as it revolves around economic interests, with both nations seeking to protect and advance their economic standing globally.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is another example of an interest-based conflict, with territorial interests at its core. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, a region that was part of Ukraine, led to this conflict. Russia's interest in Crimea is largely strategic; the peninsula hosts Russia's Black Sea Fleet and is seen as a crucial buffer zone. Ukraine, on the other hand, views the annexation as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This conflict has escalated into a full-blown war in Eastern Ukraine, with both sides vying for control over the disputed territories.

The Israel-Palestine dispute is a long-standing interest-based conflict, rooted in competing national, religious, and territorial interests. The conflict began in the early 20th century when the Zionist movement sought to establish a Jewish state in Palestine, leading to a clash of interests with the Arab population. The establishment of Israel in 1948 and subsequent wars have led to a complex and protracted conflict. Israel's interest lies in maintaining its security and the status quo, while the Palestinians seek self-determination and the right to return to their homes.

In all these conflicts, the parties involved have specific interests that they seek to protect or advance, leading to a clash with the interests of others. These conflicts illustrate how differing interests can lead to tension and conflict in geopolitics.