The War on Terror (2001- 2021)

IB Global Politics Case Study on the War on Terror

What initiated the global anti-terrorism military campaign by the United States in the Middle East?

The 9/11 attacks by al-Qaeda.

Who is the primary actor in the War on Terror?

The United States of America

What intergovernmental organization supported the War on Terror through military resources?

NATO

Who were the primary targets of military and intelligence operations in the War on Terror?

Al-Qaeda and ISIS

What is the significance of the Taliban in Afghanistan regarding the War on Terror?

The Taliban regained power, complicating stabilization efforts and posing challenges to counter-terrorism

What internal security challenges does Pakistan face concerning the War on Terror?

Extremist groups operating within its borders

What role did the United Nations play in the invasion of Afghanistan?

The UN Security Council permitted the USA to invade Afghanistan

What happened in 2003 related to Iraq in the context of the War on Terror?

The US-led coalition invaded Iraq

What was the outcome of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021?

The Taliban retook control and captured Kabul

List one major humanitarian crisis currently faced in Afghanistan.

Food shortages, sanitation, economic instability

What military operation collapsed the Taliban regime in Afghanistan?

Operation Enduring Freedom

What justification did the USA give for invading Iraq?

Belief that Saddam Hussein was developing weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).

Why is the invasion’s legitimacy questioned?

Conducted without UN Security Council’s authorisation

What happened as a result of Obama withdrawing his troops in 2011?

ISIS declared a caliphate in Iraq

What declaration did ISIS make in 2014?

ISIS declared a caliphate in captured territories in Syria and Iraq

What is the situation of Iraq now?

ISIS has lost territory, but remains a threat. There is political instability and US presence.