United States Foreign Policy and the Decision to Invade Iraq in 2003

Abstract

This thesis discussed the reasons behind the United States' going to war in Iraq in 2003. The U.S government made many arguments about the existence of weapons of mass destruction and the threat of terrorism. Still, this thesis looks deeper into other important things, like long-term political goals, wanting to take control of that part of the region, and specific ideas and beliefs about America's place in the world. Instead of using numbers or data, this study focuses on reading and understanding speeches, policy papers, and academic sources. It is also shaped by neo-constructivist theories. Furthermore, this deep study helps us understand how national ideals, identity, and ideas shaped many decisions. Some of those goals for the invasion are oil, supporting democracy, fear after 9/11, and the effects of many neo-conservative ideas and principles. Also, this thesis shows that the decision to invade Iraq in 2003 was not just about the immediate threats that faced the United States of America. Still, it was more about how the United States leaders at that time and especially after the attack on their country's soil, saw the world and what they felt the United States should stand for to avoid any future attacks, also for the demonstration of the dominance that the United States possessed.