United States Chemical Policy: Response Considerations
Abstract
Chemical weapons have been a controversial subject for years. Even before the Germans introduced modern chemical warfare on 22 April 1915 during World War I, issues concerning use of asphyxiating gases and other chemical agents surfaced. Discussions often became emotional and clouded the issues of the effects of this type of warfare. Propaganda and sensational contributed to negative public opinion and impacted on policy development. This study examines the development of the US's chemical policy by looking at significant events over time and analyzing developments and trends. An answer to the question of whether or not the US will respond with chemical weapons following use by a third world country against US military forces is concluded based on study findings. This study concluded that the US will not respond with chemical weapons against a third world country such as Iraq. Such use of chemical weapons would reverse the developments the US has made in recent years. The political considerations and the impact on future negotiations toward the banning of chemical weapons would be detrimental if the US did retaliate with chemical weapons.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 07, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA242235
Entities
People
- Lewis L. Vandyke
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College