Are these engagements simply a tactical attempt to distract and weaken the ruling family, and we just happen to be the unfortunates who live in their warzone?

The usurping Anunnaki faction has no particular desire to interact with humanity. It is simply spoils of war and the Earth’s existence being used to create a flashpoint for this contest. These Anunnaki do not have a long vested interest in the Earth itself or the human race.