SIR - I am deeply concerned about the alarming state of global affairs, particularly the increasing risk of nuclear conflict as highlighted in your recent article regarding President Putin’s potential use of nuclear weapons. The spectre of nuclear war threatens not only the stability of world order but the very survival of humanity.

Our world is increasingly dominated by mutual rivalry, distrust, and an unrelenting quest for supremacy among superpowers, often wielding their influence with reckless disregard. Russia’s recent decision to lower the threshold for nuclear strikes coupled with the continuing US policy allowing the first use of nuclear weapons under 'extreme circumstances' risks intensifying these tensions.

Islam's teachings emphasise the importance of absolute justice and fairness in leadership, which holds that power is a divine trust, meant to foster harmony and peace. Instead, we witness nations prioritising self-interest over global welfare, deepening inequality and discord. His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, has long warned that the severity of the situation is such that WW3 could begin at any time - it has already begun on a small scale.

To avert disaster, world leaders must embrace justice and accountability. This includes equitable policies, de-escalation of conflicts, and ensuring that international organisations, like the UN, regain credibility as neutral mediators. The looming possibility of nuclear war should serve as a wake-up call. If global powers fail to prioritise peace and humanity over dominance, history warns us of the inevitable collapse of even the mightiest empires. It is only through mutual respect and a commitment to absolute justice that we can hope to secure a future free from the shadow of annihilation.

Malik Fraz Ahmad, Durham University (from Bradford)