Theoretical Framework

Theoretical Framework

For Decades, the United States has held a global leadership mantle in economic development and International Security. It has not been a smooth ride, however, given the global attention the country has. At the dawn of the Millennium, for instance, United States faced a series of attacks from terrorists and other malicious groups. The development prompted a need for a conception of national security strategy updated periodically to meet the timely needs and boost security within the country and allied states. 

Combating Terrorism

When Obama got into office, he observed the importance of international cooperation and development of strong diplomatic relations with other regional powers. The forging of the new alliances with states such a Russia, China, and India as from  the year 2010 was poised to usher in a new era of international cooperation on issues affecting the global peace and security.  Security situation in the Middle East was a key concern in drafting of 2010’s National Security Strategy. In fact, the Obama administration focused on the importance of creating an internal or external consensus on matters related to foreign defense policies (Obama, 17).

Enhancing Democracy in the Middle East

2010’s National Security strategy aimed at defeating Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and other terrorist groups. It is not surprising that multiples of revolutions occurred in North Africa's Arab States including Egypt, Tunisia, and Libya.  Though the Obama Administration and NATO allies have been successful in ousting dictatorial regimes in the region, terrorist groups have shown resilience, making it hard for a democratic government to be installed (Gray, 37). In fact, most scholars argue that the involvement of United States’ interference in political activities of the Middle East has sparked a wave of instabilities. Eventually, the Arab region becomes a safe haven for thriving of terrorist groups.

Establishing Strong Relationship with Emerging Powers

Other core interest of US national security during 2010 included a response to climate change and concern of nuclear activities in Iran, North Korea, and Pakistan (Clinton, 3). In addition, the US was keen on reviving its weakening economy, hence the need to source for assistance from China, Russia and India whose economies were performing relatively well.

A threat to US Allies

Between 2010 and 2015, issues affecting US security have evolved rapidly. For example, Russia has failed to cooperate with the United States. This is evident in the annexation of Crimea and offering assistance to Ukrainian Separatists. The development is seen as an emerging threat to security of US’s Europe allies. On the other hand, China’s rise has involved bullying of smaller states in the Pacific region. As such, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Philippines have expressed their concern to the US regarding the future security in the pacific.

Cyber Security Concern

The shifts prompted a redraft of US national strategies as per the most recent developments and the new priorities. While terrorism remains one of the major security threats to the United States and its allies, the focus is shifting to Russia’s exertion of Dominance in countries like Syria, Iran and China. Besides, China’s internet censorship and perceived support of hacking activities towards US Military centers raises a threat of cyber war.  Therefore, the 2015’s National Security Strategy is  aimed at re-exerting the US power on a global scale, upholding universal values and  establishing an international order that ensures sustainability and security for all (Fierke, 53).

In summary, it is clear that the United States strives to reassure its allies in the Pacific region of its absolute commitment in providing security to curb rising countries like China from taking advantage and setting up new rules in the region. However, US face a dilemma in forging a long lasting relationship based on a mutual respect with new world powers like China and Russia. As many pro-China and Russia diplomats argue, perhaps it is a time for the US to accept the new developments and focus on partnership with emerging military powerhouses.

Works Cited

Clinton, Hillary. "Remarks on the Obama administration’s national security strategy." US Department of State, http://www. state. gov (2010):1-6. Electronic.

Fierke, Karin M. Critical Approaches to International Security. John Wiley & Sons, 2015: 32-65. Print.

Gray, Christine. "President Obama's 2010 United States National Security Strategy and International Law on the Use of Force." Chinese Journal of International Law 10.1 (2011): 35-53.Print.

Obama, Barack. National Security Strategy of the United States (2010). DIANE Publishing, 2010: 1-154. Electronic.