'Always at War': Unraveling the Endless Question of Why

The United States finds itself engaged in numerous conflicts around the globe. While I pen this, America is launching airstrikes in Yemen, providing military aid to Israel during its assault on Gaza, executing anti-terror missions across multiple nations, and engaging in a surrogate conflict against Russia within Ukraine’s borders. Additionally, President Trump has indicated his readiness to enter into warfare with Iran "without hesitation" should diplomatic efforts over nuclear issues fail.

As we face yet another possible perpetual conflict in the broader Middle East, an important question emerges: Why is the U.S. involved? always at war?

The solution is embedded within an intricate network of economic benefits and strategic maneuvers. The covert lattice of interconnected motives sustaining the U.S.'s military apparatus is exactly what the Quincy Institute explores through their latest YouTube series, "Always at War."

For individuals who were born in America after 1990, war is not an unusual occurrence—it has been a constant presence throughout their lifetimes. These ongoing battles have had far-reaching effects beyond causing devastation overseas; they've also transformed American society. Following years of perpetual warfare, U.S. citizens' freedoms have diminished, law enforcement agencies have become more militaristic, and funds that might otherwise be allocated to addressing local issues have instead flowed into the Department of Defense budget, projected to exceed almost $1 trillion per year.

The money we allocate to defense is simply staggering: the U.S. government has spent $8 trillion in post-9/11 conflicts since defense CEOs have been earning $25 million yearly and weapons manufacturers see 82% returns , amid recent conflicts.

However, just as crucial are the political motivations that favor belligerence and penalize moderation.

When eighty percent of retired four-star generals join defense companies within five years and over 50 members If members of Congress hold stock in the very same corporations, it becomes clear how financial interests drive American militarism. Additionally, an influential network comprising think tanks, news organizations, and political strategists promotes career progression for individuals who support military interventions, while sidelining those calling for caution and restraint.

"Always at War" seeks to demystify this intentionally perplexing system and make it understandable.

In the initial episodes, William Hartung from the Quincy Institute talks about America's nuclear weapon initiatives, particularly highlighting the expensive "Sentinel Program." Meanwhile, historian and co-founder of the Quincy Institution, Andrew Bacevich, compares the Vietnam War with contemporary destructive military engagements.

By exposing those who gain—both economically and politically—from U.S. decisions for war instead of peace, "Always at War" aims to enlighten viewers about why the nation appears endlessly entangled in military confrontations. Recognizing these influences can pave the way towards developing a foreign policy grounded in prudence, negotiation, and true national welfare, as opposed to financial gains and political leverage.

Watch now:

The story initially appeared on Responsible Statecraft. this story

• From Saigon to Kabul, a fifty-year span of American missteps
• My thoughts on Dan Ellsberg, the individual instrumental in bringing an agonizing conflict to a close

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