Barack Obama. National Security and Foreign Policy
National Security and Foreign Policy
This timeline covers significant national security and foreign policy events and decisions during Obama's presidency.
January 22, 2009
Executive Order to Close Guantanamo Bay
Obama ordered the closure of the Guantanamo Bay detention center, though it remained open due to Congressional resistance.
December 1, 2009
Troop Surge in Afghanistan
Obama announced a surge in U.S. troops in Afghanistan during a speech at West Point.
May 2, 2011
Death of Osama Bin Laden
Obama announced the death of Osama Bin Laden, the leader of Al-Qaeda, who was killed in a raid in Pakistan.
October 21, 2011
Withdrawal of U.S. Troops from Iraq
Obama announced the withdrawal of all U.S. troops from Iraq by December 2011.
