Afghanistan, Central Asia, Pakistan and the United States

The horrific nature of the attacks of 11 September enabled the United States to mobilize widespread international support on 12 September, the UN security council approved resolution 1368, effectively authorizing the use of force in response to the events of 11 September. All major powers, including China, denounced the attacks. NATO invoked articles 5 provisions, defining the attacks on United States as an attack on all members of the alliance. However, US policymakers were intent on building a US directed coalitions of the willing not one involving collective decision-making. The United States would request specific support consult with coalition members, but reserve decision-making for itself. While NATO acceded to US request for deployment of AWACS aircraft and other support only Britain become an immediate close collaborator in Afghanistan. Japan agreed to provide intelligence and logistical support within its constitutional constraints. Singapore became of key importance in facilitating air-to-air refueling and providing port facilities to US carries. Russia provided a significant and unusual quantity of military information.