[be|get] caught in the crossfire
1
to unintentionally become a part of an argument other people are having
The idiom "be caught in the crossfire" originates from the literal concept of being inadvertently trapped in the midst of a gunfight or conflict, where bullets are exchanged between opposing sides. Figuratively, it symbolizes finding oneself in a situation where conflicting interests, opinions, or forces clash, and one becomes an unintended victim or participant in the dispute. The idiom is used to convey a sense of vulnerability and the potential for harm when one is caught between opposing or warring parties.
- As a neutral mediator, she often finds herself caught in the crossfire between two feuding departments, trying to find common ground.
- Innocent civilians are frequently caught in the crossfire of territorial disputes in war-torn regions.
- He didn't want to take sides in the argument, but he ended up being caught in the crossfire of their heated exchange.
- Journalists covering a war zone risk being caught in the crossfire as they strive to report the truth amidst the chaos of combat.