Arguments for and against the Legitimacy of 2003 Invasion of Iraq Literature review

Arguments for and against the Legitimacy of 2003 Invasion of Iraq - Literature review good exampleRight through its history, America has not hesitated to use force under the pretexts of principles, sovereignty, and justice. American military hinderance in world affairs has risen drastically since the end of the Second World War. The period followers the Second World War saw America assume the role of a superpower that headed the occidental coalition in what was a bipolar world. Since the collapse of Soviet Union, America has had at its disposal the some potent military force. Its economic structure complements military spending leading to a military industrial complex. Noted semipolitical commentator Ivo Daalder raises some valid questions regarding the legitimacy of the invasion. Daalder argues that the invasion was illegitimate on ii counts 1.there was no provocation from Iraq and 2.the United Nations Security Council did not approve of the war. Military actions of countries such as Iran and northwesterly Korea were condemned by the U.N. and the United States alike. If the same standards were to be applied to all participant countries then the United States deserves its condemnation. On the other hand, supporters of the Bush Administration argue that toppling Saddam Hussein was a just act that need no further legitimacy Liberating the country from an oppressive dictatorship is deemed a just act in and of itself. Apart from the geopolitical significance of Bush Administrations militarism, the image of the country is also at stake. Popular opinion in the rest of the world is very unfavorable towards Americans they dont come out to make a distinction between the government and its populace. According to Robert Kagan, To forge a renewed political consensus on the use of force, we first need to recognize that international legitimacy does matter. It matters to Americans, who want to believe they ar acting justly and are troubled if others accuse them o f selfish, immoral or otherwise illegitimate behavior. It matters to our popular friends and allies, whose support may attest to the justness of the cause and whose participation may often be obligatory to turn a military victory into a lasting political success.