What were alliances a dangerous thing?

Alliances can be dangerous because they create a network of obligations that can escalate conflicts. When one nation in an alliance is threatened or attacked, allied nations may feel compelled to intervene, leading to broader, unintended wars. This interconnectedness can turn a localized dispute into a full-scale conflict involving multiple countries, as seen in World War I. Additionally, alliances can foster distrust among non-member nations, increasing tensions and the likelihood of confrontation.