Even though the United States is one of NATO's founding members, only 49 states fall under NATO protection. Here's why and why experts say that needs to change.
Yes, definitely surprised! It's one of those "go figure" head-scratchers. It shouldn't be that hard to resolve, but when governments are involved everything gets complicated.
That's so true. International politics can be quite the quagmire. And of course, if the U.S. tries to have Hawaii covered, every other NATO nation with territories in locations other than the North Atlantic will want them included in the treaty as well. And since all NATO decisions have to be unanimous, well, you can see how that could be a huge issue.
You would think, wouldn't you? But in addition to other NATO members owning territories that aren't covered by the treaty, every decision made by NATO has to have the unanimous consent of all 32 members. Herculean is the perfect word for trying to get that to happen!
Slipstream
Yes, definitely surprised! It's one of those "go figure" head-scratchers. It shouldn't be that hard to resolve, but when governments are involved everything gets complicated.
TMac
That's so true. International politics can be quite the quagmire. And of course, if the U.S. tries to have Hawaii covered, every other NATO nation with territories in locations other than the North Atlantic will want them included in the treaty as well. And since all NATO decisions have to be unanimous, well, you can see how that could be a huge issue.
Slipstream
The proverbial "can of worms."
Well Street
I had no clue that Hawaii wasn't covered. It's not a surprise that Herculean strength is needed to cut through the logistical red tape to change that.
However, shouldn't the militaristic importance of the islands help "grease the gears" of a treaty amendment?
TMac
You would think, wouldn't you? But in addition to other NATO members owning territories that aren't covered by the treaty, every decision made by NATO has to have the unanimous consent of all 32 members. Herculean is the perfect word for trying to get that to happen!