Our orders are delivered strictly on time without delay 
Write a persuasive essay on why President Obama did NOT have the legal authority to order Operation Geronimo and to execute the plan
Sample Answer
Lack of Legal Authority: President Obama’s Questionable Authorization of Operation Geronimo
Introduction
In May 2011, the world watched as the United States executed Operation Geronimo, leading to the death of Osama bin Laden, the leader of Al-Qaeda. While this mission brought a sense of closure and justice to many, it is essential to question the legal authority behind President Obama’s decision to order and execute this operation. This essay aims to present a persuasive argument highlighting the reasons why President Obama did not have the legal authority to order Operation Geronimo.
Violation of International Law
One of the primary reasons why President Obama lacked legal authority is the violation of international law. The operation took place in Abbottabad, Pakistan, without the consent of the Pakistani government. Under international law, a nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity should be respected, and any military action on foreign soil should be authorized by that country’s government. By conducting the operation without Pakistan’s approval, President Obama undermined the principles of international law and violated Pakistan’s sovereignty.
Absence of Congressional Authorization
Another critical aspect that questions the legality of Operation Geronimo is the absence of congressional authorization. According to the U.S. Constitution, the power to declare war rests with Congress, not the president. While presidents have historically taken military actions without congressional approval, such actions have usually been short-term and limited in scope. However, Operation Geronimo involved a cross-border raid into a sovereign nation, making it a significant military operation. President Obama’s failure to seek congressional authorization undermines the checks and balances system outlined in the Constitution.
Precedent and Constitutional Limitations
President Obama’s decision to order Operation Geronimo sets a dangerous precedent for future presidents. By taking unilateral action without proper authorization, he expanded the executive branch’s power at the expense of congressional oversight. This erosion of checks and balances undermines the fundamental principles upon which the U.S. government was built. Our Founding Fathers intended for decisions of this magnitude to be made collectively, with input from multiple branches of government.
Furthermore, the Constitution imposes limitations on the president’s authority to use military force. These limitations ensure that military actions are not taken lightly and are subject to careful consideration and accountability. By bypassing these constitutional limitations, President Obama set a troubling example that weakens the democratic ideals upon which our nation stands.
Alternatives and Diplomatic Solutions
While Osama bin Laden posed a significant threat to global security, it is essential to consider alternative approaches that would have respected international law and upheld constitutional principles. Diplomatic channels could have been pursued to encourage Pakistan’s cooperation in capturing or extraditing bin Laden. Collaboration with international organizations and allies could have been explored to ensure a coordinated effort against terrorism. By opting for alternative solutions, President Obama could have maintained legal authority while achieving the objective of bringing bin Laden to justice.
Conclusion
President Obama’s decision to order and execute Operation Geronimo raises serious concerns regarding his legal authority. Violation of international law, absence of congressional authorization, precedent-setting implications, and disregard for constitutional limitations all contribute to this argument. While the mission may have achieved its objective, it is crucial to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and ensure that they operate within the bounds of the law. By examining the legal flaws in Operation Geronimo, we can strive for a more transparent and lawful approach to national security operations in the future.
