The Global Story Are we heading for World War Three?
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Mar 25, 2026 
Margaret MacMillan, Emeritus professor of international history known for her work on 19th and 20th century conflicts, discusses how world wars begin and spread. She outlines scenarios for wider Middle East escalation and the accidents and miscalculations that can trigger global conflict. She explores why wars are hard to end and what diplomatic paths and confidence-building measures might prevent wider catastrophe.
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Wars Escalate Through Miscalculation And Pride
- Wars often escalate from accident, miscalculation, pride, and inability to back down.
- Margaret MacMillan compares wars to schoolyard fights where losing face pushes actors to continue fighting.
What Makes A War A World War
- A world war is a conflict no longer confined to one region because global connections pull others in.
- Margaret MacMillan notes even countries without fighting at home (e.g., Latin America, Canada, US) were engaged overseas in past world wars.
How Middle East Fighting Could Draw In Other Powers
- Regional Middle East fighting could draw in others if Iran or its allies attack global powers' shipping or infrastructure.
- MacMillan warns actions like closing the Straits of Hormuz or hitting desalination plants could pull in China or others.