1. Palestinian Territories
Making war since: 2007
Estimated fatalities: Nearly 100 in the June fight for Gaza
When 2006 elections handed Palestinian Authority power to the militant Islamic group Hamas, the secular Fatah party—and the West—worked to limit Hamas’ power. No fair! Hamas said. Hamas then went on a massive offensive in June, seizing the Gaza Strip.




2. Iraq
Making war since: 2003
Estimated fatalities: 74,000-plus, including more than 3,600 U.S. servicemen and -women
After the prophet Muhammad died, in 632 A.D., his followers divided over whom to follow next. Today Sunni and Shiite Muslims carry on that disagreement in blood.




3. Kashmir
Making war since: 1947
Estimated fatalities: 70,000
India and Pakistan began fighting for Kashmir in 1947, when it was liberated from the Brits. Both claim a portion, but Pakistan wants it all. And both have nukes.




4. Somalia
Making war since: 1991
Estimated fatalities: 1,000 in February’s Uprising
Since Somalia’s central government crumbled 16 years ago, 14 attempts to form a government have been toppled. Last December troops from Ethiopia entered the capital, Mogadishu, to repel Islamic insurgents.




5. Pakistan
Making war since: 2001
Estimated fatalities: Hundreds of local citizens
Tribal leaders, strengthened by an influx of aid from the Taliban and Al Qaeda, flex their muscle against the government’s military forces.