[GU student]

Hello All,

I am attempting to research a counterfactual in the IR/security realm. Basically, I am looking at how a nation may navigate relations with two or more of its allies or strategic partners that find themselves in a military conflict with each other. To clarify: if A is allies with B and C, what does A do when B and C go to war with each other.

Here is an example: in the Falklands War between Argentina and the UK, the US was in a "tricky" situation. It has security treaties with both nations (RIO and NATO). A similar example would be the Cenepata war between Peru and Ecuador (again, the United States was the third party).

Before delving into the counterfactual to develop theories/strategy, I was looking for other real-world examples. Unfortunately, I am having trouble finding more examples than the ones above, especially ones with different power balances (like a less powerful nation caught between two larger allies in conflict).

Can anyone suggest any other good examples? From any point in history or any part of the world. At this point I'm not picky.

Many thanks for your help!

[MB.]

You should read the book The Compleat Strategyst by J. D. Williams, and study the Nash equilibrium.

I recommend a degree in microeconomics and statistics if this is your kind of thing. History will not help you as every example of war in history fits your criteria and is thus meaninglessly broad.