Climate Change and its Impact on Security in the Arab World

Abstract

The Middle East stands at the crossroads of a climate-security crisis. Its arid environment, reliance on shared natural resources, and history of political instability make it particularly vulnerable to the cascading effects of climate change. From resource scarcity fueling social unrest to geopolitical tensions over water and land, the region offers a stark illustration of how environmental stressors can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. This paper examines the interconnectedness between climate change and security. It also explores how climate-induced challenges have amplified existing security challenges and geopolitical tensions and conflicts in key Middle Eastern countries, drawing connections to the broader implications for regional stability.