On Thursday, the Obama administration introduced a new national security strategy that combines diplomatic engagement, economic discipline, and military power to enhance America's global position. President Barack Obama's approach breaks away from the previous administration's unilateral tactics, emphasizing the importance of forming partnerships with not only traditional allies but also emerging powers like China and India to share the responsibilities of global leadership. The administration recognizes the need to prioritize economic growth and fiscal responsibility as crucial components of national security. The policy statement highlighted the importance of strengthening the economy as the foundation of American power. Obama's official national security objectives, set to be fully disclosed later on Thursday, do not include the pre-emptive war policy of his predecessor, which had strained relations with some US allies. The document outlined Obama's plan to prioritize multilateral diplomacy over military force in order to keep America safe while engaging with hostile nations. It emphasized the importance of adhering to international norms and warned Iran and North Korea of isolation if they did not comply. The National Security Strategy, a required document for every president, can influence budgets and legislation and is closely watched internationally. Obama stressed the connection between America's economic health and its global standing, calling for a fiscally sustainable path and reduced dependence on foreign oil sources. The report did not address the growing concern in foreign policy circles about the national security implications of heavy US indebtedness to countries like China. However, it did acknowledge the complex relationship between Washington and Beijing, commending China for taking a more active role in global affairs while emphasizing the need for responsible behavior. The report also expressed apprehension about China's military expansion and stated that the United States would take necessary steps to protect its interests and allies. In 2002, President Bush asserted the right to unilateral and pre-emptive military action against perceived threats, following the September 11, 2001 attacks. In contrast, Obama's approach distanced his administration from the Bush Doctrine, which had justified the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. The doctrine outlined on Thursday affirmed President Obama's commitment to maintain US conventional military superiority while departing from the "cowboy diplomacy" of Bush's presidency. The document emphasized the importance of strengthening international institutions and promoting collective action to address common interests such as combating violent extremism, preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, promoting economic growth, and finding cooperative solutions to climate change. Obama's message also urged emerging powers to take on their fair share of global responsibilities. Obama is often praised for improving the US foreign policy's tone and was even awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 for this achievement. However, he is still facing challenges such as unfinished wars, nuclear standoffs with Iran and North Korea, and slow progress in Middle East peace efforts. Critics argue that some of his diplomatic efforts may appear weak and question whether he is jeopardizing American interests by relying too heavily on "soft power." Despite these criticisms, Obama has maintained his goal to combat al Qaeda while upholding human rights and rejecting torture as a tool of national security. He has also made efforts to improve relations with the Muslim world, which suffered during the Bush administration due to the Iraq war, the Abu Ghraib scandal, and controversial language used by Bush such as "war on terror" and "Islamo-fascism." Preventing the danger of domestic terrorism was also identified as a major focus. This decision was made following the unsuccessful Christmas Day attack on a US plane and the failed Times Square car bombing attempt that occurred earlier in the month.