The doctrine Carter Doctrine

u.s. president jimmy carter

president carter in state of union address on january 23, 1980, after stating soviet troops in afghanistan posed grave threat free movement of middle east oil , proclaimed:

the region threatened soviet troops in afghanistan of great strategic importance: contains more two-thirds of world s exportable oil. soviet effort dominate afghanistan has brought soviet military forces within 300 miles of indian ocean , close straits of hormuz, waterway through of world s oil must flow. soviet union attempting consolidate strategic position, therefore, poses grave threat free movement of middle east oil.


this situation demands careful thought, steady nerves, , resolute action, not year many years come. demands collective efforts meet new threat security in persian gulf , in southwest asia. demands participation of rely on oil middle east , concerned global peace , stability. , demands consultation , close cooperation countries in area might threatened.


meeting challenge take national will, diplomatic , political wisdom, economic sacrifice, and, of course, military capability. must call on best in preserve security of crucial region.


let our position absolutely clear: attempt outside force gain control of persian gulf region regarded assault on vital interests of united states of america, , such assault repelled means necessary, including military force.