War, Grief, and the Human Cost of Conflict

In a new FUV News interview, historian and author Jeremy Varon spoke about his timely new book, Our Grief Is Not a Cry for War, which explores the political aftermath of national trauma and the legacy of the Global War on Terrorism.

Varon argues that history is filled with examples of how sudden shocks can become turning points for new conflicts. For example, the attack on Pearl Harbor or the terrorism of September 11 created a powerful emotional and political momentum that government leaders sometimes used to build support for military action.

While war has long been entwined in global politics, Varon said some observers worry the international system that once helped restrain conflicts may be weakening. He also noted that the human toll of war often remains distant from the public.

As U.S.-led conflicts unfold across the world today, Varon encouraged listeners to be mindful of the media they consume and to seek reporting that documents the lived reality of war and the suffering of civilians.