Can territorial control motivations overshadow material interests in a conflict?

Yes, territorial control motivations can indeed overshadow material interests in a conflict.

Territorial control is often a significant factor in conflicts, sometimes even more so than material interests. This is because territory is not just a piece of land; it is a symbol of sovereignty, power, and identity. It is a physical manifestation of a group's historical, cultural, and political existence. Therefore, the desire to control territory can be a powerful motivator, often overriding material considerations.

For instance, in the Israel-Palestine conflict, the issue is not just about resources but also about control over Jerusalem, a city of immense religious and historical significance for both parties. Similarly, in the India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir, the territory's strategic importance and symbolic value often outweigh material interests.

Moreover, territorial control can also be a strategic goal in a conflict. Controlling territory can provide a group with a base of operations, a buffer zone, or a bargaining chip in negotiations. It can also serve to legitimise a group's claim to statehood or sovereignty. For example, during the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, different ethnic groups sought to control specific territories to establish their own states, often disregarding the economic costs of war.

However, it's important to note that material interests and territorial control motivations are not mutually exclusive. In many conflicts, they are intertwined. For example, control over territory often means control over the resources within that territory. In the South China Sea dispute, the conflicting claims by various countries are driven not just by the desire to assert sovereignty over the islands but also by the potential oil and gas reserves in the region.

In conclusion, while material interests are a significant factor in conflicts, territorial control motivations can often overshadow them. The desire to control territory, whether for its symbolic value, strategic importance, or resource potential, can be a powerful driver of conflict.