Preemptive Warfare - A Viable Strategic Option

摘要

In the aftermath of September 11 2001 the United States national military and security strategy has been shaped to address our vulnerabilities to asymmetric attacks posed by international terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. This paper will examine the specific wording included in the National Security Strategy, National Military Strategy, and National Strategy to Combat Weapons of Mass Destruction. Further it will explore policy and strategy in regard to ends ways means and associated risks to strategy development and implementation. Additionally preemption will be discussed in terms of historical context moral and legal aspects and the current case of Iraq. The paper will conclude with a consideration as to why preemption must remain a viable option. Finally it will provide recommendations for future legitimacy.