Alliances are more than mere historical remnants or political tools; they have been fundamental to our pursuit of global stability and the safeguarding of national security.
NATO brass meets with Trump
President Donald Trump met with the head of NATO as the U.S. future in the alliance remains uncertain.
Fox – 5 Atlanta
Question: Have our allies ever come to our defense?
Answer: In the aftermath of World War II, the United States played a pivotal role in forming the contemporary international system with considerable success. While capable of self-defense, there are moments when we lean on our allies for assistance. A notable instance occurred following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, when numerous allies, particularly from NATO, provided both symbolic and practical support to the United States.
On September 12, 2001, NATO invoked Article 5 of its founding treaty for the very first time. Article 5 asserts that an armed attack on one member is viewed as an attack on all, which underscores NATO’s collective defense framework. Consequently, the U.S. was not isolated in responding to the events. NATO member nations officially expressed their support and willingness to act. This led to the initiation of Operation Eagle Assist, where NATO deployed Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft to help secure U.S. airspace in anticipation of any further threats.
This incident represented the first time NATO forces were engaged in defense operations for the United States. Another NATO initiative, Active Endeavour, was launched to monitor and mitigate terrorist activities across the Mediterranean Sea. In addition to these collective efforts, individual nations also took decisive steps to support the U.S. Allies like the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, and Australia pledged their military and intelligence assistance. Then-British Prime Minister Tony Blair swiftly expressed solidarity with the U.S., dispatching UK forces to help dismantle terrorist networks. The UK played a crucial role in the military operations in Afghanistan that ensued.
Canada also invoked its mutual defense obligations with the U.S. and played a significant part in Operation Enduring Freedom (NATO). A lesser-known yet poignant example is Canada’s response to help thousands of stranded airline passengers post-9/11. Through Operation Yellow Ribbon, with airspace restrictions in effect, Canada graciously accepted 239 diverted flights, providing food, accommodation, and aid to over 30,000 individuals. This reflects the enduring alliance between the U.S. and Canada.
Beyond military assistance, U.S. allies worldwide participated in diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian initiatives. European nations contributed with intelligence sharing, counterterrorism collaboration, and law enforcement aid to pursue those accountable for the attacks. Many countries also enacted new laws to bolster counterterrorism efforts in coordination with the U.S. Beyond the events of 9/11, NATO’s backing has been essential in implementing the Dayton Accords in Bosnia, stabilizing post-war Kosovo, and assisting U.S. actions in Libya in 2011, among others.
Alliances transcend being mere historical artifacts or political tools; they are fundamental to our strategies for fostering global stability and preserving national security. Our alliances, coupled with the array of international institutions we have established and nurtured, form the bedrock of the contemporary international system aimed at promoting free trade and fostering peace globally. While differences in foreign policy are unavoidable, these frameworks have demonstrated resilience and effectiveness as integral components of our engagement in international relations.
Kevin Wagner is a prominent constitutional scholar and political science professor at Florida Atlantic University. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the university. For inquiries about American government and politics, reach out to him at [email protected].
