The No-Fly Zone in US Foreign Policy

‘In this insightful study of American no-fly zone foreign policies spanning four Presidential administrations, Meibauer explains why contemporary American foreign policy decisions are often sub-optimal. Utilizing an innovative neoclassical realist framework, Meibauer shines a spotlight on the intra-governmental, ideational bargaining that produce ‘muddled policy’ under conditions of uncertainty. As a major contribution to our understanding of state behavior, this is a must-read for international relations scholars and analysts of American foreign policy alike.’ Jennifer Sterling-Folker, University of Connecticut
‘In this clear-eyed analysis of US interventionism since the end of the Cold War, Gustav Meibauer argues that short-term political interests have repeatedly led US policymakers astray. Time and again, they have resorted to expediency over effectiveness. Scholars and students will find much to ponder in this sobering account of US foreign policymaking.’ Peter Trubowitz, London School of Economics and Political Science
‘Meibauer advances a bold neoclassical realist framework to understand the allure of no-fly zones in US military interventions. In its historical sweep of the 1990s and 2000s, this important inquiry highlights why American leaders are attracted to no-fly zones despite repeated failures.’ Steven E. Lobell, University of Utah