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Iraq
John Compas
Foreign Military Bases
Since the decolonization in the years after World War Two countries have found other
ways to exert their influence over their less powerful or fortunate neighbors. Military bases of
countries on foreign soil have become common, the US alone having around 730 bases in 63
countries across the globe. These bases have been used to provide security to countries that
are under threats from their neighbors, or to provide for security and influence towards their
interests. Although nine countries currently maintain a military presence on other country's soil,
Russia and the United States have the largest number of foreign bases by far.
The United States maintained a large number of military bases on the soil of Iraq after
the invasion of Iraq in 2003. These bases enabled American forces to act appropriately and
quickly were necessary to maintain the stability and geographic integrity of Iraq after the
invasion. For years, Iraq was held together by these bases and the troops and support they
provided. Economic development from US greatly helped to recover Iraq from the destruction
wrought after the 2003 invasion.
After the United States forces left, the political integrity of Iraq quickly fell apart. ISIL has
swept over much of the northwestern portion of the country while the Kurds consolidated their
autonomy in the north and began fighting the advances of ISIL. Our military was unable to halt
the advances as ISIL swept across Mosel without the support of American forces. In some
cases, foreign military bases are necessary to maintain order and integrity of the country they
are based in. We do not need support indefinitely, yet we need foreign intervention until we can
reestablish a stable government.
Foreign military bases have become an important part of the stability of the globe.
Without them, the stability of the Middle East, and many other parts of the world would be in
jeopardy. Although some consider them a violation of sovereignty, they help to world remain a
peaceful and prosperous place.