The Obama administration has introduced a new national security strategy that combines diplomatic engagement, economic discipline, and military power to enhance America's global position. This strategy marks a departure from the unilateral approach of the Bush era, as President Obama aims to build partnerships with emerging powers such as China and India. The administration recognizes the importance of strengthening the economy and addressing fiscal challenges as key components of national security. The policy statement emphasizes the need to revive the US economy, which is the foundation of American power. Additionally, Obama's national security goals do not include the pre-emptive war policy of his predecessor, George W. Bush. In outlining a strategy to ensure America's safety during conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, the document established Obama's commitment to prioritizing multilateral diplomacy over military power in an effort to reshape global order. The administration also reaffirmed Obama's determination to engage with unfriendly nations, while cautioning Iran and North Korea of potential isolation if they disregard international norms. The National Security Strategy, a requirement for every president, is significant as it can impact budgets and legislation and is closely monitored globally. Obama, facing a severe financial crisis upon taking office, emphasized the connection between America's economic well-being and its international standing. The document stressed the necessity of placing the country on a financially sustainable path and reducing reliance on foreign oil sources to ensure sustained economic growth. There was no discussion about the growing consensus in foreign policy circles that heavy US indebtedness to countries like China could be a national security issue. However, the report did show the complicated relationship between Washington and Beijing, praising China for becoming more involved in global affairs but also emphasizing the need for responsible behavior. The report also expressed concerns about China's military buildup and stated that the US would be prepared to protect its interests and allies. In 2002, Bush asserted the right to take unilateral and pre-emptive military action against threats to the US following the September 11, 2001 attacks. Obama's approach distanced his administration from the Bush Doctrine that led to the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The doctrine outlined on Thursday reaffirmed the commitment to maintain US military superiority while emphasizing a departure from Bush's "cowboy diplomacy." The document acknowledged the strengths and weaknesses of international institutions and emphasized the importance of American engagement in strengthening these institutions to address common interests such as combating extremism, preventing nuclear proliferation, promoting economic growth, and addressing climate change. Additionally, Obama's message highlighted the need for current and emerging powers to share the global burden, emphasizing that the US cannot act alone. Obama is widely praised for improving the tone of US foreign policy, as seen when he won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009. However, he still faces challenges with unfinished wars, nuclear standoffs with Iran and North Korea, and slow progress in Middle East peace efforts. Critics argue that his diplomatic outreach may be seen as a sign of weakness, and question if he is relying too much on "soft power" at the expense of American interests. Despite this, Obama remains committed to disrupting and defeating al Qaeda while upholding human rights and rejecting torture as a national security tool. He has also made efforts to improve the US image in the Muslim world, tarnished by past events such as the Iraq war and prisoner abuse scandals. Preventing the danger of domestic terrorism was also identified as a key concern. This is particularly important following the unsuccessful Christmas Day attack on a US plane and the failed Times Square car bombing attempt that occurred recently.