Proxy warfare occurs when external powers support local actors in a conflict without directly engaging themselves. This allows powerful countries to pursue their geopolitical interests without risking their own military forces.

A modern example is the Syrian Civil War, where the U.S., Russia, Iran, and Turkey have all supported different factions, turning the internal conflict into a multi-layered proxy war. Proxy wars were also common during the Cold War, as seen in Vietnam and Afghanistan, where the U.S. and Soviet Union backed opposing sides to avoid direct confrontation.