Critical Analysis of US Policy and Options in Dealing with Iraq

Abstract

Abstract : Saddam Hussein's Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) programs constitute a threat to US national interests, in light of Iraqi progress in obtaining a nuclear weapon and more capable WMD delivery systems. Hussein's previous use of chemical weapons against the Iranians and Kurds prove his willingness to use WMD. This willingness, coupled with his political objectives of regime survival and regional domination, comprise a dangerous combination that threatens US national security and economic well-being. Over the past decade, Hussein has repeatedly violated UN Security Council resolutions designed to contain Iraqi aggression and disarm the WMD program. This lack of cooperation resulted in a US foreign policy toward Iraq that favors preemptive, unilateral military action with the political objectives of total WMD disarmament and regime change. This policy is causing consternation within the world community, which seeks to resolve the crisis within a UN framework. This disagreement over the handling of Iraq, along with other issues such as America's perceived unbalanced support for Israel in the Palestinian conflict, is straining US relations with its allies and eroding its credibility and diplomatic influence abroad. Further deterioration in relations, especially with Islamic countries, could hamper The Global War on Terrorism and prevent the US from obtaining basing and overflight rights in the Gulf region. This leaves the US with a dilemma in which unilateral action to protect legitimate US interests could cause significant harm to US relationships around the world and further ignite the unstable situation in the Middle East. This paper will analyze this complex national security problem and provide both non-military and military options designed to meet US political objectives while fostering cooperation and stemming the spread of anti-American sentiment.