Jeffrey Sachs: We Are Now in the Early Days of World War III

Mar 7, 2026 | Prof. Jeffrey Sachs argues that the world may already be entering the early stages of World War III, as the rapidly escalating conflict involving Iran begins to draw in additional countries and regional actors. The initial strikes and retaliations risk triggering a wider chain reaction across the Middle East and beyond, particularly as allied militias, regional powers, and global powers become increasingly involved. The traditional mechanisms of escalation control—diplomatic restraint, clear red lines, and international mediation—appear to be breaking down, raising the danger that what began as a regional confrontation could evolve into a far broader global conflict.