With global warming, low-level conflicts become more susceptible to escalation.

Scientists have seen the Sahara in North Africa expand in recent years at alarming rates as desertification and overgrazing has exacerbated water and wind erosion as well as increased soil salinity. This accelerated degradation forces nomadic tribes, such as the Berbers, to become more sedentary and urban, further magnifying the pressure on local resources. Taking into consideration the well-established history of Arab-Berber violent conflict in the region, continued desertification of the Sahara will undoubtedly lead to further and more widespread violence as people come into competition over decreasing arable land and resources.

Effects of Desertification on Arab-Berber Relations by Jon Phillips