War and Decision: Inside the Pentagon at the Dawn of the War on Terrorism

Detailed Summary

"War and Decision" breaks down the key events and policies that emerged during the U.S. government’s immediate response to September 11th. The book recounts how the Defense Department and other federal agencies developed strategies to combat terrorism globally while also addressing unprecedented security concerns at home. Feith explains the rationale behind top-level decisions, including the overthrow of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, the buildup to the Iraq War, and the efforts to balance military operations with diplomatic initiatives.

The narrative highlights the intense debates within the Bush Administration regarding long-term national security priorities. Feith tackles contentious topics such as intelligence assessments regarding weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), the decision to aim for regime change in Iraq, and the structural challenges of post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction.

This detailed account also highlights the Defense Department’s role in shaping policies such as the formation of coalitions, the handling of detainee issues, and the creation of counterinsurgency measures. By providing clear documentation and contextual analysis, Feith allows readers to grasp the complexity of decisions made under extraordinary circumstances.

Key Takeaways

• Complex Decision-Making Process: Key national security decisions often involve competing priorities, limited information, and intense interagency debate.
• The Role of Policy in Shaping Strategy: Feith demonstrates how policies are not only influenced by immediate crises but also shaped by broader strategic objectives and historical contexts.
• Importance of Evidence-Based Analysis: The book emphasizes the necessity of using documented evidence to counter misconceptions and misunderstandings in public discourse.
• Challenges of Post-War Stabilization: Feith articulates how planning for post-conflict scenarios demands as much attention as planning military operations.
• A Fresh Perspective on Controversial Issues: Readers gain insight into the reasons behind many controversial policies, helping them appreciate the complexities of governance during wartime.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"Critics of the Iraq war too often make the mistake of assuming that policymakers knew, or should have known, the full consequences of their actions in advance."

"Good policy requires not only vision and principles but also the discipline to account for practical realities and unintended consequences."

"War is a last resort, but when it occurs, it must be a projection of resolve and strategic clarity."

Why This Book Matters

For readers seeking a comprehensive understanding of U.S. policy and decision-making during the formative years of the War on Terror, "War and Decision" is an invaluable resource. The book is not merely a historical account—it is a blueprint for evaluating how governments approach national security challenges in real time. By presenting a meticulous dissection of events and policies, Feith challenges the overly simplistic narratives that have come to dominate public discourse.

Moreover, this book offers lessons for current and future policymakers, particularly in understanding how to manage crisis situations, address uncertainties, and prioritize competing values such as security, liberty, and international order. "War and Decision" ultimately underscores the moral and strategic weight behind decisions that shape the course of history, making it a must-read for scholars, students, and citizens alike.