America's War on Terror

9/11 has become a noun, an idea shaped and moulded by the media and the American political establishment, and the rationale for the subsequent War on Terror. To understand the direction of contemporary US foreign policy, one must understand the complex political, historical, and personal processes that influence America's new sense of itself and its view of the world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The title, first published in 2003, has evolved into a noun that has been shaped and molded by the media, the American political establishment, and the rationale for the subsequent War on Terror. However, it is essential to delve deeper into the real factors that have driven the world's sole remaining superpower to engage in a permanent war against an often elusive and abstract enemy, risking the very relationships that have contributed to its global status. While the tragic events of September 11, 2001, caused a significant shift in the perception and realities of American security interests and its ability to project a foreign policy agenda, simplistic views that the resulting War on Terror is merely reactionary warfaring no longer hold any credibility. To fully understand the direction of contemporary US foreign policy, a detailed understanding of the complex political, historical, and personal processes that influence America's new sense of itself and its view of the world is necessary.

The events of September 11, 2001, marked a pivotal moment in world history, altering the course of international relations and American foreign policy. The attack on the World Trade Center in New York City and the subsequent response by the United States led to the declaration of a global war on terror, with the United States targeting al-Qaeda and its affiliates as the primary enemy. This war was characterized by a series of military interventions, including the invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 and the establishment of military bases in various countries, including Iraq and Syria.

However, the War on Terror has been met with criticism and controversy, with many questioning the effectiveness and morality of the US approach. Some argue that the war has created more harm than good, by perpetuating violence, undermining human rights, and fueling extremism. Others argue that the war has been driven by political motives rather than genuine security concerns, with the US seeking to assert its dominance and influence in the Middle East and beyond.

Despite these criticisms, the War on Terror has had a significant impact on American foreign policy and the global political landscape. The US has used its military power to establish a presence in various regions of the world, including the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, and has worked to promote its values and interests through diplomacy and economic aid. The war has also led to the development of new technologies and strategies for counterterrorism, such as drone strikes and targeted killings.

In conclusion, the War on Terror has been a complex and controversial issue that has shaped American foreign policy and the global political landscape. While the US has used its military power to promote its values and interests, it is essential to consider the unintended consequences of this approach and to work towards a more sustainable and peaceful future.

ISBN-13: 9781138715103