The Weinberger Doctrine and the Liberation of Kuwait

Abstract

Abstract : The August, 1990, invasion of Kuwait by the Armed Forces of Iraq presents a unique opportunity to analyze United States' national security decision making and military strategy development. The opportunity is unique in that the analysis was real-time as the drama was played daily in capitals and media centers around the world. As U.S. policy and strategy were developed in response to the Iraqi invasion, the elements of the response were fiercely debated on the national and international stages. Adding to the uniqueness of the situation is its place in history as the first major military challenge in the post-Cold War era. Indeed, it has been argued that the post-Cold War era will be indelibly shaped by the actions of the international community in coming to grips with the aggression of Saddam Hussein against sovereign Kuwait. This paper will analyze and assess the national security decision making progress employed by the Bush Administration in dealing with the Persian Gulf situation.