How possible is a World War III during this time?

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) —There’s been plenty of talk across the aisle about a potential World War III, due to current international conflicts. With multiple wars going on at the same time, Ukraine vs Russia, Israel vs Hamas and now Israel vs Iran, a world war could seem possible.

In previous world wars, there were many aspects that fueled conflict.

History professor at the College of Southern Idaho, Justin Vipperman, compared some of the similar aspects we see at this time, “so you’re seeing a lot of the same ideas of allyship and animosity towards other countries.”

Alliances are important regarding a state’s interest and extra protection, if needed. In the last two world wars, the U.S. was brought in because of aiding their allies.

“With supplying ammunitions and different war supplies, President Roosevelt had come up with cash and carry and also the lend-lease program and so we were giving supplies to the allies,” Vipperman explained.

The U.S. has been aiding Israel in its war with Hamas, but now Iran has started bombing Israel, which puts the United States in a tricky spot, according to Vipperman’s historian perspective.

“With the nuclear capabilities that Iran has, the US has to tread very carefully in how they respond and what that looks like protecting an ally,” Vipperman said.

In a hypothetical situation, the United States could defend Israel and attack Iran, which could spark a larger conflict because another country like Russia could involve itself. One of the finite ways a war with the United States would start, is if another state attacks it.

Vipperman hypothesizes, “a massive attack would have to happen.”

Associate Political Science Professor at the College of Southern Idaho, Perri Gardener, explains there is one crucial detail that leaders take into account before heading fully into war.

“Common interest today more so than ever and that main common interest is economic; we are all deeply inner-connected in trade, the movement of people and a capital and holding each others debt,” Gardner explained.

Gardner and Vipperman both think that World War III is highly unlikely.

They explained the world has evolved, with more advanced weapons and other things that change the way war is handled and declared.

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