The Importance of NATO in U.S. Strategy After the Cold War

the international and political journal

Authors

  • Hussein Fakhri Abdul Hamza Faculty of Political Science - Mustansiriyah University.
  • Atheer Nazem Al-Jassour

Keywords:

NATO, American strategy, foreign policy, cybersecurity

Abstract

This research examines and analyzes the importance of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in American strategy, reviewing the historical background and political and military frameworks that made NATO a key tool in implementing the United States' strategic vision at the regional and international levels. The research begins with a historical overview of the alliance's founding in 1949 during the Cold War as a US-led defensive alliance to counter Soviet influence, and how this alliance formed the backbone of US defense policy in Europe. The research also addresses the evolution of NATO's role after the end of the Cold War, as the alliance was no longer limited to protecting Western Europe but took on new roles in regions such as the Balkans, Afghanistan, and North Africa, reflecting its transformation into a flexible military and diplomatic tool for the United States. The research focuses on how NATO was not merely a military alliance, but rather has become a multidimensional platform that enables Washington to enhance its political, military, and economic influence, whether through leading multinational military operations or influencing the policies of member states. The research also discusses the strategic dimensions of NATO's use in American doctrine, in terms of nuclear deterrence, missile defense, and cybersecurity protection, along with promoting the concept of "collective security," which ensures the United States remains at the forefront of the global security system. The research also highlights the challenges facing NATO in light of current geopolitical transformations, such as the rise of China, the resurgence of competition with Russia, and the retreat of some member states from their commitment to increasing defense spending. However, the research confirms that the United States still considers NATO a cornerstone of its international strategy and is keen to develop it and expand its role to meet contemporary challenges.

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Additional Files

Published

2026-11-14

How to Cite

Hamza , H. F. A. . . . . ., & Al-Jassour, A. N. . (2026). The Importance of NATO in U.S. Strategy After the Cold War: the international and political journal . The International and Political Journal, 68, 103–136. Retrieved from https://ipj.uomustansiriyah.edu.iq/index.php/political/article/view/563